Taliban govt to mark 5 years of ruling Afghanistan

The Taliban government marks five years of ruling Afghanistan on Saturday, proclaiming their nation's freedom and security while facing criticism for imposing restrictive measures on daily life. Afghans decorated their vehicles with flags, and murals declared, "Independence is a sign of dignity, pride and identity." Authorities plan a cricket match and other sports events, though girls and women are barred from participating.

Supporters gather to commemorate the Taliban's seizure of Kabul unopposed during their lightning offensive, which toppled the government following the US withdrawal. Some abandoned foreign vehicles added to the celebrations.

University student Pirooz Mirzaie believes the government has provided security and infrastructure projects but acknowledges the job shortage for young people. Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid stated that officials are laying economic foundations, emphasizing the need for patience, despite GDP per capita declining due to over six million Afghans migrating from neighboring countries.

The government's ties with various nations, including Europe, have strengthened, but its recognition is limited to Russia. Relations with neighboring Pakistan have worsened, leading to a war this year, which exacerbates the humanitarian crisis amid international aid cuts. While the UN recognizes the Taliban's government, it acknowledges the "suffocating restrictions" that intrude on almost every aspect of life, affecting human rights. Fiona Frazer, UNAMA's human rights director, highlighted the severe impact on people's well-being.

The Committee to Protect Journalists criticized the Taliban's brutal suppression of the press, citing surveillance, detention, beating, censorship, and exile of media workers. Women face particularly severe restrictions, banned from public spaces, most jobs, and education beyond age 12. A 23-year-old woman expressed profound suffocation, feeling like a "500-year-old woman" who cannot die.