Taliban Reaffirms Long-Term Rule, Female Education Ban & Diplomatic Outlook

As the second anniversary of the Taliban’s takeover of Afghanistan is marked, the group’s chief spokesman reveals that their rule is open-ended, bolstered by Islamic law, and devoid of significant challenges.

Zabihullah Mujahid further affirms the continuation of the ban on female education, while international recognition and women’s rights remain contentious points.

He further discusses the group’s perspective on their governance, asserting that their rule, based on Islamic law or Sharia, has no fixed time frame.

He asserts that their leadership is tied to the tenets of Sharia and the absence of actions conflicting with its principles.

Education Restriction: Women’s Learning Remains Curtailed

In response to queries about the prohibition on girl’s and women’s education, Mujahid stands firm on the status quo.

The ban, initiated with the prohibition on girls attending school beyond sixth grade, is emblematic of a broader pattern of restrictions that marginalize Afghan women from education, employment, and public life.

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Since assuming control on August 15, 2021, following the withdrawal of U.S. and NATO forces, the Taliban has firmly entrenched its rule in Afghanistan.

The second anniversary of their takeover was marked by a public holiday on Tuesday, however, women, primarily excluded from public life, refrained from participating in the celebrations.

Symbolic Celebrations: Taliban’s Anniversary Gestures

In Kandahar, the birthplace of the Taliban, military personnel commemorated the event with armored vehicles.

The city witnessed young men parading on bicycles, motorcycles, and cars, waving flags and displaying weapons. Even toddlers held small Taliban flags bearing Defense Minister Maulvi Mohammad Yaqoob’s photo.

Meanwhile, the Taliban’s stronghold is visibly rooted in Kandahar, where their supreme leader Hibatullah Akhundzada resides, shaping the trajectory of the movement.

Leadership Insights: Interviewing the Spokesman

Conducted in Kandahar, the interview with Zabihullah Mujahid touches on the Taliban’s future, internal harmony, and engagement with the international community.

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Mujahid emphasizes the government’s responsible actions and Afghans’ desire for consensus, quashing the need for rebellion.

The Taliban government reflects on its accomplishments over the past two years, spotlighting the restoration of personal safety and national pride.
Notably absent from the statement are references to Afghan refugees, economic challenges, or the widespread poverty triggered by dwindling international aid.

Diplomatic Landscape: Taliban’s Engagement and Recognition

Despite the Taliban’s efforts to maintain diplomatic connections with various countries, their stance on women’s rights remains a point of contention.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken highlights that women’s and girls’ rights are essential for normalized relations, urging a shift in the Taliban’s approach.

Global humanitarian organizations and rights groups voice concern over the Taliban’s rule, condemning violations and advocating for investigations into alleged crimes against women and girls.

Amidst the crisis, access to basic health services and mental health care for Afghans faces critical challenges.