Security tight for Karzai inauguration

Security forces have increased patrols on some streets in the Afghan capital of Kabul while others have been blocked entirely. Authorities are bracing for possible attacks during the inauguration ceremony that will cement President Hamid Karzai's re-election victory.

Afghan policemen search a vehicle at a checkpoint in Kabul in October 2009. Afghan and international authorities have ordered a security lockdown on Kabul to stop Taliban attacks marring Thursday's  inauguration of President Hamid Karzai for another five years in power. (AFP/File/Shah Marai)

Karzai will be sworn in on Thursday for his second five-year term.

He was eventually declared the winner after his main opposition candidate, Abdullah Abdullah, pulled out of the runoff vote. In August, Karzai failed to get the 50 percent needed to win outright.

Abdullah Abdullah, expressed his view on the effect President Karzai's new term would have.

Abdullah Abdullah said, "Personally I'm not optimistic, but the people are still hoping that despite of all the problems, perhaps something good might come out. So let's not disappoint the people, but I am concerned and worried."

According to a survey released on Wednesday, 48 percent of Afghans surveyed picked corruption and government ineffectiveness as a major cause of violence.

A Kabul resident said, "In the last five years, we haven't had security. Now I request him to stand by his word and the oath he has taken. He must fire the corrupt government officials."

The government has declared Thursday a national holiday.

There will be no large public ceremonies. Instead, the inauguration will be held inside the presidential palace with tight restrictions on who is allowed in.

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