Malala Yousafzai, the Nobel Peace Prize recipient, expressed her concern for the safety of women, minorities, and human rights defenders as the Taliban prepares to take control in Afghanistan.
Malala’s urge to the global powers
The rights activist, who was shot in the head by Taliban militants in Pakistan while campaigning for girls’ education, asked world and regional leaders to call for an urgent ceasefire and aid civilians.
“We watch in complete shock as Taliban takes control of Afghanistan. I am deeply worried about women, minorities and human rights advocates. Global, regional and local powers must call for an immediate ceasefire, provide urgent humanitarian aid and protect refugees and civilians,” tweeted Ms Yousafzai, now based in the UK.
The tensed situation in Kabul
The Taliban stormed Kabul today, and an official reported to NDTV that President Ashraf Ghani had fled to Tajikistan, putting an end to the insurgents’ quick rise to power. Ghani had left for Tajikistan, according to a top Afghan Interior Ministry officer.
The President’s office said it “cannot say anything about Ashraf Ghani’s movement for security reasons”.
There was no violence, says Taliban spokesperson
No combat was reported, and Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid said the group was waiting on the outskirts and in talks with the Western-backed government for a peaceful surrender.
“Taliban fighters are to be on standby on all entrances of Kabul until a peaceful and satisfactory transfer of power is agreed,” he said.
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Is Taliban projecting a modern face?
The Taliban, who were previously known for keeping girls out of school and imposing harsh Islamic punishments such as amputation, stoning, and hanging, appeared to be attempting to create a more modern image.
Suhail Shaheen, another spokesman, claimed the group would preserve women’s rights as well as media and diplomatic freedoms.
