The Taliban government has defended its recent ban on all protests in Afghanistan, stating that the order aligns with Islamic law.

The Taliban government defended its ban on protests on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, asserting that the policy complies with Islamic law. The administration introduced a rule last month declaring that all types of protests are banned, a move that has faced criticism from international rights organizations.

Government justification for the ban

Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid stated during a news conference that protests do not exist within Islamic law, arguing that such demonstrations are characteristic of democratic or republican societies. He suggested that citizens should instead approach the government with their concerns. Mr. Mujahid further claimed that the ban serves to prevent the destruction of private property and protects people from wasting time.

International and rights group criticism

Human Rights Watch has characterized the ban as a move to suppress dissent in Afghanistan. Amnesty International described the measure as a significant assault on human rights, labeling the protest ban as one of the most egregious provisions in the government's recent legal changes. While public demonstrations have been rare since the Taliban returned to power five years ago, UN experts reported that at least two people were killed in June when security forces opened fire on a women's rights protest in Herat.