Hibatullah Akhundzada has issued a decree prohibiting any form of “baseless accusations or criticism” against Taliban members and officials.
Citing Islamic narratives, the order warns that anyone who insults or speaks ill of the Taliban will face punishment, extending even to liability for torn clothing during altercations .
The decree applies to all citizens and media outlets, effectively silencing public dissent. Human rights activists view this as a move to criminalize accountability, especially given the widespread allegations of torture and misconduct by Taliban forces .
This new restriction further shrinks the civic space in Afghanistan, leaving citizens with no safe avenue to report grievances or abuse of power by the ruling authorities.
