The Kabul Tribune (KT) — Taliban leader Hibatullah Akhundzada has issued a new decree banning public criticism and accusations against Taliban officials, warning that violators and those making what he described as “baseless criticisms” will face punishment.
In the decree, published by the Taliban’s Directorate for
the Supervision and Implementation of Orders and Decrees, Akhundzada said
criticisms that are, in his view, “far from reality and without foundation” are
against Islamic principles and that those responsible will be penalized.
According to the order, anyone who insults Taliban officials
or damages their clothing or personal belongings will not only be punished but
will also be required to compensate for any losses incurred.
The decree also states that individuals who insult courts or
disrupt court proceedings during judicial processes may be subject to legal
prosecution. However, it adds that the final decision on whether such
individuals are forgiven will rest with the court itself.
Akhundzada said the order applies equally to all citizens,
Taliban members, and media outlets, and that it is enforceable under Islamic
law.
The decree comes amid repeated reports by human rights
organizations and civil activists accusing the Taliban of harassing, insulting,
torturing, and humiliating civilians.
Human rights groups say Taliban fighters often enforce
strict and restrictive rules based on personal interpretations, leading in some
cases to members of the public being beaten, threatened, and placed under
pressure.
