KABUL: Widespread reactions have emerged following the anti-Taliban protests in Darayim and Argu districts of Afghanistan’s Badakhshan province over the past two days. The ongoing protests signals growing discontent with the Taliban’s rule in Afghanistan.
Over the past two days, demonstrations have escalated following a violent incident in Qarluq village within the Darayim district. The unrest was triggered by the Taliban’s use of force against villagers, resulting in the tragic death of a man named Nizamuddin and injuries to several others.
Reports indicate that the protests spread to the Argu district, where residents voiced their opposition to Taliban rule through anti-Taliban chants. However, the response from Taliban forces in Argu was met with further violence, leading to additional casualties and injuries among the demonstrators.
Meanwhile, the Federalist Assembly of Afghanistan, a newly formed political movement comprising exiled politicians, issued a statement on Sunday, characterizing the protests as a resounding expression of public dissatisfaction with the Taliban’s autocratic and tribal governance.
Meanwhile, the Taliban leadership has announced the formation of a delegation tasked with investigating the aftermath of the protests and addressing concerns related to efforts to eradicate poppy fields in Badakhshan province. The delegation, led by Taliban army chief Qari Fasihuddin, is expected to travel to the province from Kabul.
The demonstrations underscore the challenges facing the Taliban in governing a populace increasingly disillusioned with their rule. The use of force by Taliban forces against unarmed civilians has drawn condemnation from both domestic and international observers.
