A US decision to boost troop numbers in Afghanistan would be welcome, but there is need for a more robust engagement.
There is a dire need for statesmanship, a visionary and honest leadership, and a balanced and inclusive partnership.
![Ashraf Ghani and Abdullah Abdullah [Reuters]](/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/e0ffa7519d2a4ebc8ecda34edd33da3f_18.jpeg?resize=270%2C180)
Afghans need reassurance that the gains of the past 14 years won’t be negotiated away as part of regional deal-making.
Two men will have to navigate Afghanistan out of rough waters and onto calmer shores.
As both contenders for the presidency see the end of the electoral debacle approaching, they’ve draw
Political egos and manipulative tactics must be put aside and both camps should aim for a collaborative outcome.
If Afghans fail to avoid political polarisation and ethnic chauvinism, it will imperil the post-2014 transition process.
Did Obama rain on the Afghan parade or are there back-channel imperatives that trumped all other considerations?
Second round or not, there are only a few days left to reach a credible electoral outcome acceptable to most Afghans.
Some prefer a run-off to seek a clearer mandate, others see a prolonged race as polarising and destabilising.