Washington, DC - The United States condemns the attack directed today on Afghan provincial leadership in Kandahar. We extend our sympathies and condolences to the families of General Raziq and the other senior Afghan officials who were killed in the attack. We also extend hope for the speedy recovery of all those injured in the attack, including two Americans and one Coalition member who were present at the time.

The United States is resolved to continue its support for the Government and people of Afghanistan as they work to provide security for all Afghan citizens, including for the upcoming parliamentary elections on October 20. Recent attacks against parliamentary candidates in the final days of campaigning in Afghanistan stand in stark contrast to the aspirations of the Afghan people for peace, security, and economic stability. The right and desire of the Afghan people for their votes to be counted must be respected.