In Afghanistan, a protest demanding women’s rights ends abruptly.
The Associated Press reports that Taliban special forces fired their guns into the sky on Saturday (Sept. 4) as women marched for equal rights in the streets of Kabul, ending the demonstration at the last moment.
Activists reportedly gathered outside the Defense Ministry of Afghanistan, leaving a wreath as a memorial for fallen soldiers. Afghanistan was dominated by the Taliban last month, and Afghan soldiers were killed fighting the group.
Within a few minutes, the women had laid the wreath outside the ministry and started marching to the palace. As the shouts got louder, Taliban officials stepped into the crowd. During a protest, one of the officials stated that women wanted their rights, and the official responded that they would receive them.
A dozen Taliban members launched their weapons as they arrived on the scene, however. The 24-year-old protester Sudaba Kabiri, who was at the scene, reported the use of tear gas.
Many have expressed concern about the possibility that, with the U.S. withdrawing from Afghanistan, women’s rights progress, as well as other things that the Taliban have traditionally opposed, may be halted or even reversed. As reported by the Associated Press, Taliban members have painted over murals about the dangers of HIV, and the Taliban Commission has stated that the murals were painted over due to their violation of their values.
In Kabul, the most recent demonstration for women’s rights came to a close, but more can be expected if people are prepared to stand up. Maryam Naiby, a young protester from Afghanistan, said, “I am here to gain human rights for Afghanistan.” “I love living in my country. “I’m here to stay.”
This article was penned by Jonathan P. Wright. Jonathan is a freelance writer for multiple mainstream publications and CVO of RADIOPUSHERS. You can read more of his work by clicking here.
