Taliban Leader Hibatullah Akhundzada Bans Criticism and Accusations Against Taliban Members
Hibatullah Akhundzada, the leader of the Taliban, has issued a new order prohibiting media, citizens, and even Taliban members from making what he described as “unfounded accusations and unrealistic criticisms” against subordinates. Violators of this directive will face punishment.
In the text of this order, Akhundzada, citing “Islamic narrations,” warned that slandering, insulting, or damaging the clothing of Taliban members constitutes a crime. The accused, in addition to being punished, will also be required to cover the cost of the torn clothing.
Akhundzada further stated that insulting judicial courts or disrupting court proceedings will also result in prosecution, unless the respective court pardons the individual. According to him, this directive applies to all citizens, media outlets, and Taliban members in a manner that is “Sharia-compliant.”
The issuance of this order comes amid repeated accusations by human rights organizations and civil activists against Taliban members regarding mistreatment, torture, insults, and humiliation of citizens. These organizations emphasize that restricting criticism and public oversight eliminates accountability and paves the way for continued violations of citizens’ fundamental rights.
Previously, reports had indicated that Taliban forces have, based on personal interpretations of their leader’s orders, acted arbitrarily, including publicly beating, insulting, and harassing citizens in public spaces. This situation has heightened concerns about an intensifying climate of repression and the absence of legal protection for the people.
