The electoral performance of Afghan political parties: A comparative analysis

This thesis seeks to study the electoral performance of two Afghan political parties in post- Taliban Afghanistan. The research is focused on analyzing the electoral success of Jamiat-E Islami Afghanistan - Islamic Society of Afghanistan" & "Afghan Mellat - Afghan Social Democratic Party." The study is a primary, deductive, and comparative analysis that is mainly conducted by using a qualitative technique to analyze the primary and secondary material that is readily available. To conclude, the study looks at the two parties' historical evolution and their organizational structure, campaign tactics, and clientele relationships. According to the concept, political parties with connections to prominent local figures—Mujaheddin and ethnic leaders with substantial political and electoral support—generally fare better in elections than those with fewer connections. In this sense, Afghan Mellat, which has poor relationships with local notables like Mujaheddin and ethnic leaders, has less electoral success than Jamiat-e Islami Afghanistan, which has strong ties to local notables like Mujaheddin and ethnic leaders. Building relationships with the Mujahidin provides a platform for bolstering organizational and financial resources, essential elements increasing the possibility of electoral/party victory. Keywords: Afghanistan, Electoral system, and Government, Political Parties