Mullah Hibatullah Akhundzada, the Taliban leader, issued a new decree declaring any criticism of Taliban officials a formal crime in Afghanistan. According to the decree released two days ago, citizens and media organizations are prohibited from criticizing Taliban members and government officials, and violators will face severe punishments.
The decree states that “unfounded” or “false” criticism will be considered a crime, punishable by imprisonment, fines, and other penalties. It also specifies that insulting Taliban personnel, including damaging their uniforms, is a punishable offense. During judicial proceedings, those who disrupt court operations or insult the court may face Legal action, although courts retain the discretion to grant pardons.
According to the Taliban leader, the decree applies immediately to all Afghan citizens, Taliban members, and media organizations. However, the decree does not clarify the criteria for determining whether criticism is unfounded or false, leaving the Taliban with sole authority to decide which statements are factual and which are considered accusations. Observers view this move as another restriction on freedom of expression.
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