Taliban bans all public protests in Afghanistan under new law

The Taliban leadership has implemented a nationwide ban on all forms of public protest in Afghanistan. The new police law, known as ‘Qanoon-e-Shurta’, was approved by Supreme Leader Hibatullah Akhundzada and officially released by the Ministry of Justice.

Under Article 50 of the new law, any type of demonstration on Afghan soil is strictly prohibited. While the law formalizes the ban, it does not specify the exact scope of the restrictions or the specific penalties for those who violate them. Additionally, the Taliban has officially adopted the term ‘Shurta’ to refer to its police force.

The legislation also outlines regulations regarding the treatment of detainees. Police officers are instructed to avoid actions that could jeopardize the physical health or dignity of suspects. Specifically, the law prohibits the use of sticks, whips, cables, or other methods of physical violence against prisoners without a judicial order.