Taliban spokesperson Zabiullah Mujahid stated that Afghanistan was liberated through the "sacrifices of martyrs and lives," asserting that "double the sacrifice" would be made to defend it. He called on the media, journalists, social media users, and political analysts to reflect the achievements and positive activities of the Taliban government rather than spreading negative propaganda.
Mujahid made these remarks during an online program titled "Government in the Mirror of Media." He noted that certain media outlets give excessive coverage to issues such as the Durand Line, Badakhshan, and Bagram Airfield, alleging that "foreign intelligence circles and their supporters" are attempting to cause public anxiety by exaggerating minor incidents.
He added that ongoing regional conflicts, unemployment, and other challenges have led to public despair, urging media outlets and political analysts to present analyses based on accurate information and statistics, and to produce investigative reports on the government's progress.
Mujahid also invited political analysts to offer constructive advice to improve government operations and called on the public to support the Taliban regime.
These statements come as human rights organizations and press freedom advocates express deep concern over the state of media freedom in Taliban-ruled Afghanistan. In its 2026 World Press Freedom Index, Reporters Without Borders ranked Afghanistan 175th out of 180 countries, highlighting that restrictions on the press and information control have intensified since August 2021.
Writer:Saeed Sameer
