Afghanistan Times
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AT-KABUL: Hundreds of civil rights activists, representatives of political parties and residents of Kabul City staged protest demonstration against delay in issuance of the electronic national identification cards (e-ID cards)
They asked President Ashraf Ghani and Chief Executive Officer Abdullah Abdullah to put aside their political differences. They said the two leaders should order the relevant authorities to start distribution of the computerized ID cards.
The protestors marched from Eid Gah Mosque to Pashtunistan Square. The protesters chanted anti-Pakistan slogans. They chanted “Death to ISI and foreign spies”, “We want computerized national identification card with our identity”.
Ahmad Hotak, a protestor, said that it has been 10 months that the Census Law was approved by the president but due to political differences between the two leaders, distribution of the e-Tazkeera was delayed.
He said the government was not serious in distributing the computerized ID cards despite the fact that Ministry of Interior has completed preparations.
They issued a resolution, asking the government to mention words Afghan and religion in the new computerized ID cards. They warned the government of nationwide protests if the authorities failed to kick off distribution of the national ID cards soon.
Earlier in March 2013, comprised of seven chapters and 39 articles, the draft of census law was sent to the National Assembly by the Ministry of Justice. After some amendments, the Wolesi Jirga — Lower House of Parliament sent the draft law to Meshrano Jirga — Upper House for approval on June 19, 2013.
Meshrano Jirga approved the law and decided not mentioning of nick name of individuals, words Afghan and religion in new computerized national identity cards. The decision has annoyed hundreds of Afghans.
