Afghan students elated over peaceful presidential election

Shimla, Aug 21 (ANI): Afghan students pursuing their post graduation degrees at Himachal Pradesh University are elated about elections back home being held in relative peace.

The students expressed their happiness with the elections getting over in peaceful mode by defying Taliban threats.

On Thursday millions of Afghans turned up to vote in the presidential elections in the midst of a worsening battle against Taliban militia.

Speaking to ANI, the Afghan students, said they are happy that elections have taken place amidst Taliban threats and described it as a victory of people to restore democracy even though at a fledgling level.

"We can't exercise our franchise from a foreign country. But I'm happy to use (see) my colleague (s) my countrymen (casting) their votes and they have right of vote today. They can change... they can choose... they will bring good opportunity for future. And election is so important. And I'm happy my all people use their choice right," said Mohammed Nabi Ahmadi.

The incumbent President Hamid Karzai and his chief rival, Abdullah Abdullah, are the main contenders in the recently concluded Afghan presidential elections.

Exit polls conducted before the election showed Karzai in the lead but suggested he might be headed for a run-off against Abdullah, a former foreign minister with strong support in the orth. (ANI)