LAGHMAN PROVINCE, Afghanistan — Government officials of Laghman province, with the assistance of the Laghman Provincial Reconstruction Team and Afghan national security forces, met with more than 200 mullahs and village elders, Aug. 15, at the Dawlat Shah District Center to discuss security, development and the upcoming elections.

Officials at the shura included, Laghman Provincial Governor Lutfullah Mashal; Dawlat Shah sub-governor Mohammad Arif Kahn; Afghan national police chief Gen. Omer Yahr; Afghan national army, 4th Kandak commander, Col. Mohammad Jahn; and Laghman Provincial Reconstruction Team commander, U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Ben Ungerman.

The Afghan government officials encouraged all citizens to vote, stating that the democratic process is supported by Islamic values. They also discussed ways to help improve the quality of life for citizens in Dawlat Shah.

Mashal pointed to construction projects and operations designed at improving security in the province as signs that the government is responsive to its citizen's needs.

Mashal, along with Yahr and Jahn, called on the citizens of Dawlat Shah to aid ANSF and International Security Assistance Forces service members in security, stating it was the responsibility of Dawlat Shah citizens to improve the future of Laghman province for their children.

Afghanistan's national elections are scheduled for Aug. 20.