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Taliban supreme leader Hibatullah Akhundzada reiterated his call for absolute obedience to his authority and full implementation of the group’s interpretation of Islamic law across Afghanistan in a message released on Monday ahead of Eid al-Fitr.
In his message, Akhundzada described compliance with his orders, laws, and decrees as “obligatory” for Afghans and all Muslims. “Just as you have obeyed before, continue to obey your Supreme Leader, because obedience to those in authority is obligatory upon every Muslim according to the clear verse of the Quran,” he said.
The Taliban leader instructed government bodies, particularly those responsible for religious affairs, to intensify efforts to promote “righteousness” and guide citizens toward adherence to the Sharia system. Akhundzada praised the morality police for their work to “prevent corruption and enforce social discipline.”
He urged cooperation between citizens and religious scholars to prevent corruption, correct the beliefs of youth and ensure proper implementation of Sharia law.
He also asked Afghans to pray for the protection of Taliban authorities and fighters and the continuation of the Islamic system. “Today we are in a day when Allah forgives people’s sins and accepts their supplications. Therefore, you should pray for the protection and steadfastness of your Muslim brothers, especially the Supreme Leader, the Mujahideen, and the officials, and for the continuity of the Islamic Sharia system,” he said.
The message emphasized the importance of internal unity among Taliban members, warning against disagreements and calling for solidarity. “Just as you sacrificed to establish the Islamic system, you must now strive to preserve it, obey the responsible authorities, strengthen the Islamic system, and avoid all forms of division,” Akhundzada said.
The statement made no reference to the status of women and girls, who have been largely excluded from public life and education since the Taliban returned to power in August 2021. Akhundzada also did not mention the ongoing conflict with Pakistan, including Pakistani airstrikes that have killed and injured dozens of civilians in recent days.
He urged foreign countries to respect Afghanistan’s religious values and refrain from interfering in its internal affairs. “We call on all sides to respect the beliefs and values of the people of Afghanistan and to refrain from interfering in our internal affairs,” he said, while condemning what he described as injustices and violations of Muslim rights worldwide.
Akhundzada, a hardline cleric from the Pashtun Noorzai tribe, has led the Taliban since 2016 and consolidated his authority after the group’s return to power in August 2021. Based in Kandahar, he remains largely out of public view but holds extensive control over the Taliban’s political, military, judicial, and religious affairs, shaping the regime’s hardline policies across Afghanistan.
