Afghanistan: Shia Ulema Council calls on Taliban to prevent provocative acts during Muharram

In a press statement followed by Shia Waves Agency, Hujjat al-Islam wal-Muslimin Mohammad Akbari, Deputy of the Shia Ulema Council of Afghanistan, called on the Taliban to work on preventing any provocations or incitements during this year’s holy month of Muharram.

Akbari emphasized that Imam Hussein, peace be upon him, the Master of the Youth of Paradise, was martyred for the sake of God Almighty to preserve Islam. This necessitates better coordination between the Shia of Afghanistan and the Taliban to ensure the rituals of Muharram proceed peacefully and without conflicts.

He noted that a formal meeting between the Council of Shia Scholars of Afghanistan and Taliban leaders to discuss the organization of Muharram rituals has not yet been held, expressing hope that all matters will be resolved through mutual understanding.

The Deputy of the Shia Ulema Council also highlighted the need for cooperation and coordination to organize the Ashura ceremonies, emphasizing that these efforts should be aimed at seeking the pleasure of God Almighty and enhancing fraternal relations in the Afghan society.

These statements come in the context of widespread concern among Afghan Shias, as Taliban forces last year removed mourning flags raised by Shias on shops and streets during the days of Muharram in some provinces such as Kabul and Ghazni, causing widespread discontent among the Shia community.

Some Shia citizens in Kabul emphasized the importance of mourning assemblies during Muharram as an opportunity to strengthen unity among Muslims and forge stronger bonds, calling on Taliban leaders to enhance brotherhood and understanding in the country and to consider the demands and calls of the approximately 10 million Shias in Afghanistan.