Taliban supreme leader tells new government to uphold sharia law

In 1st message since Islamist insurgency’s takeover of Afghanistan, Haibatullah Akhundzada warns ‘people should not try to leave the country’

By AFP 8 September 2021, 7:37 am

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In this undated and unknown location photo, the new leader of Taliban fighters, Mullah Haibatullah Akhundzada poses for a portrait. (Afghan Islamic Press via AP)

KABUL, Afghanistan — The Taliban’s secretive supreme leader on Tuesday told the newly appointed government to uphold sharia law, in his first message since the hardline movement swept to power.

“I assure all the countrymen that the figures will work hard towards upholding Islamic rules and sharia law in the country,” Haibatullah Akhundzada, who has never been seen in public, said in a statement released in English.

Akhundzada told Afghans that the new leadership would ensure “lasting peace, prosperity and development,” adding that “people should not try to leave the country.”

“The Islamic Emirate has no problem with anyone,” he said.

“All will take part in strengthening the system and Afghanistan and in this way, we will rebuild our war-torn country.”

Akhundzada’s public profile has largely been limited to the release of messages during Islamic holidays, but the group has shed some light on his whereabouts following its takeover of Afghanistan.

“He is present in Kandahar,” Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said after they seized power.

Another spokesman had said Akhundzada was due to make a public appearance “soon.”