The leader of the Taliban, Mullah Hibatullah Akhundzada, has sparked international outrage and concern after threatening severe punishments for women in Afghanistan, including public floggings and stoning to death for adultery.
Akhundzada’s chilling remarks were delivered in a voice message broadcast on state television, where he asserted the Taliban’s authority to enforce strict Islamic laws, even if they conflict with Western principles of women’s rights.
“We will flog the women… we will stone them to death in public… you may call it a violation of women’s rights when we publicly stone or flog them for committing adultery because they conflict with your democratic principles… (But) I represent Allah, and you represent Satan,” Akhundzada stated, as reported by The Guardian.
The Taliban leader’s comments have reignited fears of a regression in women’s rights in Afghanistan, with many expressing concerns that the Taliban’s resurgence could lead to a return to the oppressive policies of the past.
Furthermore, Akhundzada justified these draconian measures as part of the Taliban’s ongoing struggle against Western influences, emphasizing that their work is far from over despite the takeover of Kabul. “The Taliban’s work did not end with the takeover of Kabul, it has only just begun,” he declared.
The international community has condemned Akhundzada’s statements, calling for the protection of women’s rights and urging the Taliban to uphold basic human rights standards. The threat of public floggings and stoning represents a significant setback for the progress made in Afghanistan over the past two decades and underscores the urgent need for action to safeguard the rights and freedoms of Afghan women.