Has Democracy Failed in Afghanistan?

The 2014 election is a critical test for Afghanistan's young democracy, at least the western style of democracy that has replaced the traditional Afghan consultative body, the Loya Jirga in existence at least since 1747 .

The current election just like election of 2009 is marred with accusation of massive fraud alleged by Dr. Abdullah's team. But it's not so much about the allegations of fraud that's putting democracy to test in Afghanistan, but it is the threat of civil war and a bloody crisis that could arise as a result of the dispute over the election.

Accusations of fraud is common in developing countries. For example, this week there was election in Indonensia, but both candidates declared victory. Accusations of fraud during election is also common in India, Pakistan and beyond. Afghanistan is no exception.

But what is troubling in Afghanistan is the absence of a 'democratic mindset' among Afghans.

Some believe that if they can't win power through election, they will do so through violence and disregard for rule of law. For example, Dr. Abdullah's team has threatened to bring Abdullah to power through force by declaring a parallel government. This is has led the US and European countries to warn of troops withdrawal and stopping aid if any group tries to seize power through force.

What's is interesting is that Abdullah's team called the result of 2nd round election "coup", but yet the camp itself is trying to overthrow the government by bringing a parallel government which itself is a coup.

Overall, it's the threat and risk that arise from dispute over election that is disturbing and will lead to failure of democracy in Afghanistan.

Election is a critical component of democracy. While I can't argue election has failed democracy in Afghanistan, at the same time I can't make the argument that democracy has succeeded in Afghanistan, at least when one uses election as a benchmark for democratic success.