Kabul, Aug 19 (IANS): Afghanistan President Hamid Karzai Tuesday called for early announcement of the result of the presidential runoff held June 14.

"I am hopeful that the election results come out as soon as better and both presidential candidates accept the results," Karzai said in his short speech at a ceremony held in the defence ministry compound to mark the 95th Independence Day.

The first round of Afghan presidential election was held April 5, and the controversial runoff was held June 14.

However, the runoff result is yet to be announced as both candidates have demanded auditing more than eight million votes, which may take several more days if not weeks.

President Karzai at the ceremony paid tribute to those who had sacrificed their lives for the country's freedom.

Presidential candidates Abdullah Abdullah and his opponent Ashraf Ghani Ahmadzai also attended the ceremony.

Afghan people under the leadership of then king Amanullah Khan regained independence from Great Britain on August 19, 1919, and since then the day has been observed as Independence Day.

Afghanistan's 95th Independence Day was marked amid tight security as all roads and streets leading to Presidential Palace, defence ministry and other important areas have been blocked.