SENATOR JOHN FAULKNER
Minister for Defence
Friday, 21 August 2009
021/2009
AFGHANISTAN ELECTION
The Minister for Defence, Senator John Faulkner, said the conduct of yesterday’s
Presidential and Provincial elections in Afghanistan strengthened democracy in that
country.
Senator Faulkner said that despite Taliban threats to conduct attacks and to harass
and intimidate voters, the elections proceeded with minimal disruption in Oruzgan
province.
“In Oruzgan, where Australian forces supported the Afghan National Security Force
in its lead role providing security for the elections, voters proved their resilience and
determination by turning up and casting their votes,” Senator Faulkner said.
“This is despite the reported 16 incidents involving rocket, mortar and small arms fire
in six areas across the province during the day. Only one polling centre had to close
for less than 30 minutes during the day before resuming operations.
“To quote Lieutenant Colonel Peter Connolly, Commanding Officer of the Mentoring
and Reconstruction Task Force, the people of the province were “courageous and
gutsy” by participating in the election.
“The successful conduct of the elections is a tribute to the resolve of the Afghan
people and the efforts of our troops,” Senator Faulkner said.
The attacks included multiple 107mm rocket and 82mm mortar strikes, rocket
propelled grenades and small arms fire. Almost all the rocket attacks were fired at
maximum distance or were poorly directed.
Australian forces engaged the firing point for one rocket attack against a patrol base
to the north of Tarin Kowt using three rounds of canon-fire.
Through all these attacks there have been no reports of loss of life or equipment
damage.
Security forces will now resume normal duties and continue to put pressure on the
Taliban insurgents.
Media contacts:
Colin Campbell (Senator Faulkner):
02 6277 7800 or 0407 787 181
Defence Media Liaison:
02 6127 1999 or 0408 498 664
NEWS 
