- Anniversary Celebration and Defiance: Taliban Marks 2 Years Since Seizure of Afghanistan
- Challenges and Restrictions: Gender Apartheid and Continued Struggles for Afghan Women
- Mixed Sentiments and Ongoing Concerns: Commemorating the Anniversary Amid Economic and Security Challenges
Tuesday marked the second anniversary of the Taliban’s seizure of Afghanistan, which they celebrated with a public holiday and a defiant statement commemorating their return to power.
The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, the name assigned to the country by its new rulers, flew at security checkpoints throughout the capital on August 15, 2021, when the government backed by the United States collapsed and its leaders fled into exile.
Since then, Taliban authorities have imposed their strict interpretation of Islam, with women enduring the brunt of “gender apartheid” laws, as described by the United Nations.
Authorities announced Tuesday morning that the victory “paved the way for the establishment of the Islamic system in Afghanistan.”
“The conquest of Kabul proved once again that no one can control the proud nation of Afghanistan” and that “no invader will be allowed to threaten the independence and freedom” of the country, it stated.
Taliban convoys and a rally in Massoud Square outside the abandoned US embassy interrupted Kabul’s quiet streets this morning.
While anthems blared and young boys sold the movement’s white flag bearing the Islamic declaration of faith, some of the men carried their weapons while others took smiling photographs.
A crowd of Taliban supporters in the western city of Herat chanted “Death to the Europeans, death to the Westerners, long live the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, death to the Americans.”
“Need to rejoice”
In Kandahar, the birthplace of the Taliban movement, where the reclusive Supreme Leader Hibatullah Akhundzad governs by decree. A military parade was canceled as celebrations began in various cities.
Journalists were told by provincial officials that Akhundzada canceled the parade, which was expected to feature dozens of military vehicles and weaponry abandoned by international forces during their weeks-long withdrawal, so as not to disturb the public.
In Kabul, the education ministry celebrated at a school in a diplomat-free neighbourhood. The Taliban government is still not officially recognized by any other nation.
A medical student at an event at Kabul University told AFP that commemorating the anniversary was essential.
“Today we must rejoice. Today signifies the end of occupation in our country, which is a positive development,” said 21-year-old Mortaza Khairi.
Women’s isolation from public venues, work, and education hinders international aid and recognition negotiations.
UN experts criticised Taliban claims of a more tolerant rule than from 1996 to 2001 on Monday.
“Despite Taliban de facto authorities’ assurances that any restrictions on access to education would be temporary. The data shows fast, systematic, and all-encompassing segregation, marginalisation, and persecution “Experts said.
Want their liberty restored
Afghan women have expressed fear and despair over the loss of rights before the anniversary. With a handful holding small demonstrations with many of their features concealed by masks.
However, Afghans also expressed concern over an economic and humanitarian crisis that has developed since the Taliban’s takeover. As aid has dried up and sanctions have been imposed.
Rahatullah Azizi, a farmer, told AFP he now has “just enough to eat.”
However, he was relieved that he could now travel at night without being mugged.
Even though violence has decreased in Afghanistan over the past two years, the Islamic State remains a threat, and tensions have risen with Pakistan due to an increase in attacks in shared border regions.
Although contentious, Taliban officials have claimed that foreign militants will not use Afghan territory to attack overseas.
Some Afghans celebrate the end of combat and Taliban control on August 15, while others mourn.
Former student Hamsah Bawar stated in advance of the anniversary, “All Afghan girls and women want their freedom back.”
