The Taliban movement, which is banned in Russia, has stated that it has completely banned the activities of political parties in Afghanistan. This development was reported by interfax with reference to Aamaj News, and it signals a major shift in the country’s political landscape as the governing authority asserts control over civic organizations and political expression.
Abdul Hakim Sharai, the Taliban’s Minister of Justice, described the move in definitive terms, stating that political party activities have no basis in sharia and do not align with the interests of the nation and its people. The remark underscores the Taliban’s justification for curbing organized political competition and consolidating power within a framework they deem compatible with religious law and national priorities.
Historically, Afghanistan hosted a fairly active party scene before the Taliban’s return to power in August 2021, with 73 registered political parties recorded at the time. In the aftermath of the takeover, many party leaders chose to leave the country, creating a significant vacuum in organized political leadership and community organizing. The current move to ban parties intensifies questions about the future of political pluralism, governance, and citizen participation under Taliban rule.
Earlier during a briefing at the U.S. State Department, it was noted that Thomas West, the U.S. Special Envoy to Afghanistan, and Rina Amiri, the Special Envoy for the Rights of Women and Girls in Afghanistan, were set to meet with Taliban representatives in Doha, Qatar. Vedant Patel, the Deputy Spokesperson for the U.S. Department of State, stated that Washington intends to maintain contact with the Taliban as long as it serves U.S. interests, while making clear that this engagement does not equate to formal recognition of the Taliban government by the United States. The situation highlights the delicate diplomatic balancing act as Washington navigates security, humanitarian, and human rights concerns in Afghanistan.
Reports also noted that the Taliban took steps aimed at cultural and social regulation, including actions such as burning musical instruments within the country. This measure appears to be part of a broader effort to reshape public life in line with the movement’s interpretation of cultural norms and religious guidelines. Observers consider how such cultural restrictions will affect daily life, freedom of expression, and the cultural heritage of Afghan communities, especially in urban centers where music and performance traditions have long persisted.