Taliban’s Censorship Extends To Own Leader’s Remarks, Speech Reveals

Zabihullah Mujahid, the Taliban’s spokesperson, censored parts of an audio recording of Taliban leader Hibatullah Akhundzada’s Eid speech at the Eidgah Mosque in Kandahar.

Notably, Akhundzada’s voice was cut off at the moment he began criticising the widespread influence of the media among the public.

During the speech, Akhundzada said: “Today, media is in people's pockets and it lies,” but his voice was abruptly muted at that point.

Mujahid published the audio recording on his account on X, formerly Twitter, on Saturday. However, when Akhundzada began addressing media influence, the recording was clearly edited and censored.

Despite the censorship, Afghanistan International has obtained an unedited version of the full speech from Kandahar. In the uncensored audio, Akhundzada is heard discussing the power of the media and responding to criticism regarding the lack of inclusivity in the Taliban government.

In the censored portion, the Taliban leader accused the media of spreading “pure slander” and claimed to have heard a news report that was a “complete lie”, though he did not specify which report or outlet.

Akhundzada also attacked his critics, labelling them “devils.” In response to claims that the Taliban’s administration is not inclusive, he urged listeners to examine the backgrounds of Taliban officials.

The backgrounds of Taliban cabinet members, governors and police chiefs reveal that no non-Taliban individuals are included in the government. The administration has ignored Afghanistan’s political and social diversity. There are no women in leadership roles, and ethnic minorities have been excluded.

Nevertheless, in his speech, Akhundzada stressed that people should focus on the actions of Taliban officials and the direction in which they are leading the country. He concluded by expressing hope that “Allah will protect the regime from propaganda.”

The censorship of Akhundzada’s speech prompted sharp reactions on social media. Some users remarked: “Censorship in the Taliban regime is so extreme that it even silences the voice of its own leader.”