Afghan prominent female politician Fawzia Koofi has issued a formal statement condemning what she describes as increasing pressure and alleged repressive actions by the Taliban against her close relatives and family members. According to the statement, Koofi accused the Taliban of expanding what she called a campaign of political revenge by unlawfully detaining her close associates.
Home Seizure and Forced Displacement
Fawzia Koofi stated that nearly three months ago, Taliban forces stormed her private residence and took control of it. Following the takeover, her family members living there were forcibly removed and compelled to relocate to another place. She said she remained silent at the time to avoid giving a personal or political angle to her struggle, emphasizing that her cause is for Afghanistan’s broader freedom and future.
Detention of Family Members and Civilians
According to the statement, on Tuesday, April 28, Taliban forces also raided her new residence. During the operation, not only were her relatives detained, but civilians from Badakhshan with no family connection to her were also arrested. Since the arrests, there has been no information regarding their whereabouts or condition, raising serious concerns among human rights organizations.
Commitment to Continue Struggle
Fawzia Koofi described these actions as cowardly and a sign of weakness and instability within the current system. She said that Afghan women’s activism has unsettled the authorities, which is why pressure is being increased. She appealed to local and international organizations to take immediate steps for the release of those detained.
Reaffirming her stance, she said that she and Afghan women will continue their struggle for freedom, justice, and human dignity, adding that such tactics will not weaken their resolve.
