But unlike the last elections in 2004, Afghans seem to be excited about the prospect of casting their ballots Thursday -- even though the Taliban has threatened violence to disrupt the voting. Also unlike 2004, there are several serious opposition candidates to President Hamid Kurzai.

Will the elections will be a watershed moment for Afghanistan?

Guests:

Barmak Pazhwak, Program Officer for Afghanistan, U.S. Institute of Peace

Hassina Sherjan, Director of Aid Afghanistan for Education, a nonprofit group.

Learn more about the candidates from NPR: