Taliban Leader Defends Executions as Integral to Islamic Law
Kandahar, Afghanistan – April 2025 — Taliban leader Hibatullah Akhundzada has reaffirmed his administration's commitment to enforcing Islamic law, including public executions, describing such measures as essential elements of Islam. His remarks came shortly after the execution of four men convicted of murder, an incident that drew widespread condemnation from human rights organizations and the United Nations.
According to an audio statement shared on X (formerly Twitter) by Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid, Akhundzada emphasized that Islam extends beyond rituals and encompasses all aspects of governance and justice. “Islam is not just about a few practices. It is a complete system of divine orders that must be fully implemented,” he stated during a 45-minute address to Hajj instructors in Kandahar province.
The executions, which occurred in sports stadiums last Friday, mark the highest number carried out in a single day since the Taliban's return to power in August 2021. The Afghan Supreme Court confirmed that the men were found guilty of murder and received capital punishment after the victims' families declined to offer clemency, in line with Islamic jurisprudence.
Akhundzada firmly dismissed international criticism, asserting that the Taliban’s objective is not power or wealth, but the enforcement of Sharia law. “God commands us to pray and to uphold His punishments,” he said, defending the legitimacy of the executions.
These comments emerge as the Taliban attempt to foster diplomatic relations with the global community. In a notable shift, the United States recently lifted sanctions and bounties on three senior Taliban figures, including Interior Minister Sirajuddin Haqqani, who is linked to past insurgent attacks. Furthermore, the Taliban have released four American citizens this year, framing the move as part of a “normalization” process in U.S.-Afghanistan relations.
Despite efforts to rebrand themselves on the international stage, the Taliban's continued use of capital punishment and strict interpretation of Islamic law have raised alarm among global rights advocates. The U.N. and several non-governmental organizations continue to call for a moratorium on executions and for the respect of due process in Afghanistan.
Sources: News Agencies