Kabul (Kubha News)- Taliban government officials has scrubbed the last message of their leader, Mullah Hibatullah Akhundzada, from their official social media accounts.
The message, which delved into topics concerning women’s rights and the Taliban’s stance in the face of Western pressure, was previously disseminated across social media channels affiliated with the Taliban-controlled National Television, Bakhtar news agency, and spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid. However, it has since been conspicuously erased from these platforms.
According to sources within the Taliban, the decision to release the message was met with internal dissent, with certain leaders and members of the political commission expressing reservations. “This message was released due to pressure,” a source revealed to Kubha News.
In his audio message, Mullah Hibatullah Akhundzada asserted the Taliban’s commitment to implementing what they deem as Sharia principles. He declared readiness to enforce strict measures, including public stoning for adultery, in response to Western criticisms of their treatment of women. Additionally, he stated the Taliban’s preparedness for an extended conflict lasting up to two decades.
The dissemination of this message elicited strong reactions both domestically and internationally.
The United Nations, through its deputy spokesperson, Farhan Haq, expressed disappointment at Haibatullah Akhundzada’s remarks.
Haq emphasized the organization’s repeated calls for the Taliban to address concerns regarding women’s rights and urged the rescinding of the directives issued.
Despite widespread scrutiny, the Taliban has remained silent regarding the rationale behind the removal of the controversial message from their social media platforms.