The Electoral Performance of Afghan Political Parties: A Comparative Analysis

Abstract

This article aims to examine the electoral results of two Afghan political groups in the former and post-Taliban periods in Afghanistan. The study's main objective is to evaluate the electoral victories of the Afghan Social Democratic Party (Afghan Mellat) and Jamiat-e Islami Afghanistan (the Islamic Society of Afghanistan). Basic, deductive, and comparative analysis is used in the study, which is mostly conducted by examining the primary and secondary data that are already accessible. In order to get to a conclusion, the study examines how the two parties listed above have changed historically and looks into their organizational structure, communication plans, and clientele relationships. This article explains the conclusion that political parties with connections to prominent local figures—Mujahidin and ethnic leaders have substantial political and electoral support bases—generally do better in elections than organizations with less connections. Accordingly, Afghan Mellat, which has poor relationships with the local notables, Mujahidin and ethnic leaders, is experiencing less electoral success than Jamiat-e Islami Afghanistan, which has strong ties to the local notables, Mujahidin and ethnic leaders. Building relationships with the Mujahidin provides a platform for bolstering organizational and financial resources, which are important elements increasing the possibility of electoral/party victory.