Taliban official warns those seeking to sow insecurity in Afghanistan

Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, the economic deputy to the Taliban administration’s prime minister, warned people he said were trying to create insecurity and chaos in Afghanistan during the 107th anniversary of the country’s independence, telling them to stop such actions.

He said any “improper and destructive act” would face a “strong and decisive” response. The remarks were made as part of his speech at the official ceremony marking Independence Day.

The published text of the speech did not provide further details about the individuals or groups being referred to, or the nature of any possible security incidents.

Afghanistan marks Independence Day every year on Aug. 28, a day linked to the end of British influence over Afghanistan’s foreign policy.