Public Execution of Nazar Mohammad in Afghanistan: Taliban Executes Murder Convict

Public Execution in Northern Afghanistan

ISLAMABAD – The Taliban carried out a public execution in the city of Shibirghan, the capital of northern Jawzjan province, on Monday. The execution, which was witnessed by thousands of onlookers at a sports stadium, marked the third death sentence to be implemented in the past five days.

Execution Amidst Heavy Snowfall

The grim event unfolded amidst heavy snowfall, adding to the chilling atmosphere as the brother of the murdered man took the life of the convict. The executioner shot the condemned man five times with a rifle, as reported by an eyewitness who spoke on the condition of anonymity due to media restrictions set by the Taliban.

Increased Security Measures

Security around the stadium was notably tight, reflecting the ominous presence of the Taliban in the region. The group has been swift in implementing severe punishments in public since seizing power in August 2021, despite initial promises of a more moderate rule.

Continuation of Public Executions

Monday’s public execution was the fifth to be carried out by the Taliban since their rise to power. The stringent measures, including floggings and stonings, harken back to the harsh rule of the late 1990s under the Taliban’s previous regime in Afghanistan.

Government Response

Government officials from the Taliban were not available for immediate comment on the execution. However, it was revealed that the death sentence had received approval from three of the country’s highest courts and the Taliban supreme leader, Mullah Haibatullah Akhundzada.

Recent Incidents

Prior to Monday’s execution, two men in the southeastern Ghazni province were publicly executed for stabbing their victims to death. Additionally, in separate incidents in northern Balkh and eastern Laghman provinces, individuals were lashed for adultery and immoral acts, respectively.

International Criticism

The United Nations has strongly condemned the Taliban’s public executions, lashings, and stonings since seizing power, urging the rulers of Afghanistan to cease such barbaric practices.