Two Years After Takeover: Afghanistan's Taliban Government Marks Anniversary A mid Mixed Sentiments
Afghanistan's Taliban government is preparing to observe the second anniversary of their takeover with a military parade and celebrations across the country. The event is set to take place in Kandahar, the birthplace of the Taliban movement, where their Supreme Leader Hibatullah Akhundzada rules from. The capital, Kabul, is adorned with flags of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, the new name given to the country by the Taliban after their rise to power in August 2021.
Over the past two years, the Taliban has imposed a strict interpretation of Islam on Afghanistan, with women disproportionately affected by the new laws. The United Nations has labeled these measures as "gender apartheid". The parade is set to feature a display of military vehicles and weaponry left behind by international forces following a chaotic withdrawal. While the Taliban claims a more lenient rule compared to their previous stint in power, critics argue that the ground reality showcases an increased system of segregation and persecution.
Celebrations are planned in other cities as well. Convoys of Taliban members will drive through the streets of Herat, and the education ministry in Kabul will host an event at a school. However, the Taliban government remains unrecognized by other countries, which complicates their engagement with the international community. Negotiations regarding aid and recognition are hindered by concerns about women's rights and restrictions.
UN experts have criticized the Taliban's assurances of a milder rule compared to their previous regime. Despite promises of temporary restrictions, the experts contend that the Taliban's actions have led to an accelerated and systemic marginalization of various groups, particularly women.
As the anniversary approaches, Afghan women are expressing fear and despair over the loss of rights they have experienced. Some have organized small demonstrations, masking their faces for security reasons. The Taliban's takeover has also triggered an economic and humanitarian crisis due to decreased aid and imposed sanctions. Many Afghans are grappling with the aftermath, with some like farmer Rahatullah Azizi experiencing economic hardship, although security conditions have improved.
Though security has seen improvements, the threat of the Islamic State group remains, and tensions with neighboring Pakistan have escalated due to increased attacks near the shared border. The Taliban has assured that Afghan territory will not be used by foreign militants to launch attacks abroad, but this remains a contentious issue.
The sentiment regarding the anniversary is mixed among Afghans. While some are relieved by the end of conflict and Taliban rule, others, like former student Hamasah Bawar, long for the restoration of their freedom and rights, particularly for Afghan women who have borne the brunt of the restrictive measures.