Afghan Lawmaker Atta, A Woman Who Sought Presidency, Found Dead

KABUL -- A female lawmaker and former Afghan presidential candidate, Shahla Atta, has been found dead.

Chief of Kabul Police Department's Criminal branch, Farid Afzali, told RFE/RL that Atta had been found dead in her home in the capital on March 12.

He did not say whether foul play was suspected and declined to give details, saying an investigation was under way.

Atta, who was about 50 years old, ran for president in 2009.

She was an independent lawmaker in parliament.