The Taliban Justice Ministry says a new law on preachers has been published after approval by Hibatullah Akhundzada, requiring religious preachers to follow the Hanafi school of Islam.
The Taliban Ministry of Justice announced on Tuesday that the “Law on Preachers” has been issued in the official gazette after being endorsed by Akhundzada. The law consists of two chapters and 17 articles.
Under Article 6, a preacher must adhere to the Hanafi school of thought. Article 10 also states that preaching must be conducted on the basis of Hanafi jurisprudence.
Article 14 stipulates that if any preacher does not follow the Hanafi school, they must be prevented from carrying out their activities.
According to Article 9, preachers may spread their message through speech and media such as radio, magazines and books, but the use of media containing “live images” is prohibited.
The law also states that preachers must refrain from taking minors and women with them during their religious outreach. Teaching prayer, promoting the “virtue of jihad”, explaining women’s rights and instructing on women’s dress are among the responsibilities outlined in the law.
Over the past four years, the Taliban have imposed sweeping restrictions on social and religious life in Afghanistan, particularly affecting civil liberties, women’s rights, education and the conduct of religious practices.
In religious matters, the Taliban have repeatedly stressed the enforcement of rulings based on Hanafi jurisprudence. This has raised concerns among followers of other sects, especially Shia Muslims, about restrictions on religious freedom.
During this period, the Taliban have also continued to enforce rules and restrictions on citizens through the Ministry for the Propagation of Virtue and Prevention of Vice.
