The recent decree issued by Taliban leader Mullah Hibatullah Akhundzada, banning education for Afghan women, has sparked widespread debates both among the public and within the Taliban’s own ranks. Many Taliban clerics have found themselves unable to defend the decree. Some have remained silent, while others have openly expressed their opposition.
Among them, General Mubeen, a well-known Taliban propagandist, sarcastically remarked, “Thank God I passed this test. Neither supporting nor opposing!” In another message, he challenged Taliban supporters, writing: “Dear Twitter warriors! Get your courage ready; the time has come to openly support the leader’s decree! Be brave!” General Mubeen also backed statements made by Afghan national cricket players in support of women’s education. He added, “The extremists in the religious community are furious that Rashid Khan posted a Quranic verse. Is this a crime? Islam is not anyone’s personal property to use as they please to restrict others!”
On the other hand, Mullah Hamasi, another prominent Taliban cleric, stated in a recent declaration that he has been monitoring social media discussions. He noted that the harsh rhetoric of some clerics and their dismissive attitudes toward the educated population have caused many people to lose faith in both the Taliban regime and religion. Hamasi emphasized that learning modern sciences is obligatory in light of contemporary needs and criticized the Taliban’s stance as misguided.
Similarly, Professor Faiz Mohammad, a Kabul University professor, responded to the decree by publishing a poem. He likened the consequences of the decree to cutting off the progress of the Afghan people:
“I have taken an ax and am cutting my own foot,
I don’t need your help, I’m doing it well myself.
Years of sacrificing my life’s blood,
Now that it bears fruit, I’m cutting its roots.”
In addition, another cleric named Sikandar raised concerns about the issue of privacy and modesty between female patients and male doctors. Referring to inappropriate conduct by some male doctors, he remarked, “Those who claim male doctors are appropriate for female patients should search online for the videos of Dr. Shanda Raz in Miranshah. Exceptions always exist.”
These debates highlight significant divisions not only among the public but also within the Taliban’s own ranks regarding the recent decree. These internal disagreements, along with public backlash and domestic and international pressure, have further challenged the Taliban’s position.
