MPs Voice Concerns Regarding Distribution of e-ID Cards

A number of Afghan parliamentarians claim that there is no political will in the National Unity Government (NUG) for distribution of the national electronic identity cards.

An Afghan lawmaker says deteriorating security situation in the country is the main cause of delays in the government reform plans.

“Implementation of reform plans including the distribution of e-ID Cards is unpractical until the security is not maintained all over the country,” said MP Farhad Azimi.

Another lawmaker, Ghulam Farooq Majroh, accuses specific circles within the system for making trouble in the process.

Majroh added,” there has never been a strong political will for the distribution of the electronic ID cards, which is both a national document and is useful for a fair and transparent election in the future”.

Officials say there is no obstacle in the process, because the process is moving forward under the timeline specified by a presidential decree.

“90 days is set as the preparation period and six months as the first round of the distribution process. Currently, we are in the first step and there is no issue to concern our people. All legal, logistical and budgetary requirements for the process is resolved,” said Hamayoun Muhtat Head of the Electronic National ID Card Project.

In the first phase, distribution of e-ID cards will begin from Kabul and officials insist there is no chance of fraud in the system.

Reported by: Elaha Omari