Technocrat and former World Bank official. Open to talks with Taliban
Former anti-Soviet resistance member. Wary of Taliban talks
Leading in Pashtun-dominated southern provinces
Ahead in mainly Tajik northern areas
Backed by Rashid Dostum, an Uzbek ex-warlord accused of human rights abuses
Supported by wealthy Balkh governor Atta Mohammad, a bitter Dostum rival
Has support of Qayyum Karzai, brother of President Karzai
Also has backing of Mohamed Mohaqiq, powerful leader of ethnic Hazaras
Ahmed Zia Masood, whose brother was a famous resistance hero, helped balance ticket
Gul Agha Sherzai, an influential Pashtun, helped bring ethnic balance to ticket