• Saturday, 05 October 2024

Taliban spokesperson promises a general amnesty in Afghanistan

Taliban spokesperson promises a general amnesty in Afghanistan
Kabul, 17 August 2021 (dpa/MIA) — The Taliban struck conciliatory tones during the first press conference held by the militant Islamists following their takeover of Afghanistan. Spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid said the Taliban is not hostile to anyone, in comments to the press in Kabul. He promised Afghans a general amnesty that would also apply to those who opposed the Taliban. It likewise applies to those who worked supporting foreign forces in the country. Those who fought with them have also been pardoned, Mujahid said. When asked about innocent civilians who had been killed in the battle for the country, Mujahid said their deaths were unintentional. He also promised that foreign embassies and the city of Kabul would be safe, saying no one would be harmed in Afghanistan. He blamed the chaos in Kabul of recent days on the incompetence of the former government. The Taliban also advocates for women's rights within the framework of Sharia law, he said, adding that women would be able to work in the fields of health, education and other areas. He also had reassuring words for the media, saying outlets should remain impartial, but that any content should not run counter to Islamic values. Mujahid promised the government would be inclusive, saying that everyone would have a share once the government was formed. The movement's fighters may not enter people's homes, he said.