The news from Afghanistan on the election process is encouraging. The determination and courage of the people to have their say and participate in shaping their country’s future, as reflected in the high voter turnout, is impressive.

Obviously, the Taliban failed in their efforts to sabotage the elections with threats and violence, even though the security situation remains tense. This is a good start. It is essential now that the counting of the votes as well as the processing of complaints proceed in a transparent, swift and credible manner.