A Shiite cleric speaking during Ashura commemorations in western Kabul called on the Taliban authorities to ease restrictions imposed on followers of different religious sects and allow them to freely observe their religious ceremonies and rituals.
In his speech, Nawab Ali Irfani stressed that followers of every sect should be able to perform their religious practices in accordance with their beliefs and jurisprudence, without administrative or security-related obstacles. He described respect for religious freedom and diversity of belief as essential to Afghan society.
His remarks come amid reports of increasing restrictions on religious activities since the Taliban returned to power in August 2021. These include limitations on the observance of certain religious ceremonies, particularly during the month of Muharram, as well as the removal of Ja’fari jurisprudence from university curricula and parts of the country’s judicial and legal systems.
The Taliban have not yet issued an official response to the Shiite cleric’s remarks.