Taliban leader Hibatura Ahnzada released a statement on Friday commemorating the fourth anniversary of his group’s return to power in Afghanistan.
In his address, Ahnzada cautioned that Afghans who oppose the religious governance of the Taliban would face “the severe punishment of Allah, Almighty.”
“We should recognize the significant blessings from God that our people must remember, and we express our deep gratitude to Allah the Almighty for giving us even more blessings on this Victory Day,” Ahnzada stated.
“Victory Day” marks August 15, 2021, the date when President Joe Biden took control after the chaotic withdrawal of U.S. forces.
“If we fail to show our gratitude for these blessings, as per Allah’s will, we won’t benefit from them, and we expose ourselves to His harsh punishment,” Ahnzada continued.
The Supreme Leader mentioned in a cabinet meeting that “religious knowledge” is vital for the stability of Taliban rule. He urged promoting religious awareness, discouraging immoral behavior, protecting citizens from harmful ideologies, and guiding Afghans on matters of faith.
The Taliban claims it is merely a “temporary” or “tentative” government, but it is consolidating power in Kabul until general elections can take place.
Ahnzada directed his associates to drop the “acting” designation from their titles and encouraged them to “serve the Sharia system and the Muslims” by solidifying their hold on power. “Sharia” refers to Islamic law.
According to Ahnzada, the “sacred sharia system” would liberate Afghanistan from issues like “corruption, oppression, land seizures, drug trade, theft, looting, and plundering.”
While the Taliban has reduced opium production, it has not entirely halted it. The United Nations reported that, last year, 19% of Afghanistan’s opium production surged, largely driven by poverty and despair under Taliban rule. They’re attempting to teach farmers alternative crops to help sustain their families.
Experts in organized crime suggest that the reported decline in opium production may not be entirely accurate, as large stockpiles of opium still circulate globally, with many farmers continuing to cultivate poppies, albeit across the border in Pakistan. Additionally, Afghan drug traffickers have shifted their focus towards increased methamphetamine production instead of completely abandoning the drug industry.
Observers noted that this year’s “Victory Day” celebrations were much more subdued compared to the boisterous military parades of prior years, which showcased American military equipment left behind by Biden. Instead, this time, celebrations included a flower drop and a few sports events in Kabul.
