The leader of the Taliban in Afghanistan, Mullah Haybatullah Akhundzada, has proposed banning the use of smartphones. This was reported by Zamin.uz.
This proposal was made before the internet shutdown. About a year ago, at the Taliban’s council of scholars held in Kandahar, Akhundzada called for a religious ban on smartphones.
According to him, this measure would serve to curb negative opinions and criticism, as well as to preserve the Taliban’s reputation. However, many scholars opposed this.
They emphasized that significant investments have been made in smartphones and mobile technologies, and that these are important tools in daily life, trade, and education. Smartphones allow citizens to express their opinions freely and access information quickly.
Following this, the Taliban decided to shut down the internet, aiming to restrict the population’s access to global networks. Experts and ministers in Kandahar warned about the economic and social harms of this decision.
They stated that restricting information freedom could hinder the development of the country’s economy, education, and trade. However, Akhundzada disregarded their opinions and ordered the continuation of the internet shutdown.
Additionally, a decision was made to establish a separate internet provider for government agencies and diplomatic missions. Analysts believe this decision serves to secure the economic interests of individuals close to the authorities and to limit the flow of information by introducing a new system.
Experts emphasize that this policy will negatively affect all spheres of life in Afghanistan. Internet restrictions will adversely impact freedom of speech as well as education, trade, healthcare, and international relations.
The internet shutdown and smartphone ban in Afghanistan pose a serious threat to the country’s stability and development. The Taliban leadership’s policy is expected to limit the younger generation’s opportunities for education and weaken the country’s global economic connections.
Thus, these restrictions in the field of information and communication will have a negative impact on the country’s social and economic progress in the long term.
