Presidential Candidates

6. Sayyed Eshaq GAILANI -- withdrawn Born: 1955 (Hegira 1334) in Kabul Political Affiliation: party leader and abortive presidential candidate of the National Solidarity Movement of Afghanistan (Nahzat-e Hambastagi-ye Melli-ye Afghanistan) in 2004 First Vice-Presidential Running Mate in 2004: Mohammad Esma'il Qasemyar Second Vice-Presidential Running Mate in 2004: Barialay Nasrati

Gailani withdrew his candidacy in the days before the 2004 presidential election.     He is a former mujahedin and member of one of the country's most influential religious families, descended from Imam Hasan, son of Caliph Ali, a cousin and son-in-law of the Prophet Muhammad. Gailani is a monarchist who has advocated a major role for ex-king Zaher Shah. He is also a former leader of the Pakistan-based political association called Afghan Politicians in Exile.     Generally regarded as a moderate, Gailani has been a strong critic of President Karzai's administration and continued U.S. and foreign intervention in Afghanistan. He alleged that the Transitional Administration failed to guarantee citizens' security, and accused it of inefficient use of international aid to further Afghan reconstruction. Gailani has also backed greater rights for women, saying that it is "unjust to ignore half of society" (Afghanistan Television). SOURCES: JEMB; RFE/RL; Radio Free Afghanistan; Ludwig W. Adamec, "Historical Dictionary of Afghanistan"; Martin Ewans, "Afghanistan: A Short History of Its People and Politics"; and as noted.