Protesting Women Demand Release of Detained Activists in Taliban-Controlled Areas

Sun Oct 22 2023
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KABUL: In a powerful public statement, a group of protesting women has called for the immediate release of individuals currently held by the Taliban. The detained activists include Julia Parsi, Neda Parwani, Matiullah Wesa, and Rasoul Parsi.

The “Women’s Protest Movement for Freedom” considers these imprisoned women and civil activists as victims of what they describe as the “repressive policies” of the Taliban. Gathered at a discreet location in Kabul, these women voiced their concerns on a Saturday, urging the international community not to officially recognize the Taliban.

A statement from the “Women’s Protest Movement for Freedom” highlights their demand for an end to what they view as the oppressive rule of the Taliban. They express a deep-seated desire for Afghanistan to find stability and establish a democratic government that respects the freedom of its people, with a particular focus on women’s rights.

The statement emphasizes that freedom is an inherent and fundamental right for every individual and underscores the necessity of taking swift and practical actions to secure the release of activists currently held by the Taliban.

Notably, there has been a recent development regarding the release of Mortaza Behboudi, who had been in Taliban custody for 284 days since January 7. France reported his release, marking a significant development in the efforts to free detainees in Taliban-controlled regions.

Over the past two years, the Taliban has been repeatedly criticized for its detention and mistreatment of civil activists and women who actively participate in protests. These incidents serve as stark reminders of the human rights challenges faced in areas under Taliban control.

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