In anticipation of the upcoming month of Muharram, the Shiite Ulema Council of Afghanistan has issued a statement calling on Taliban security authorities to ensure the safe and appropriate conduct of mourning ceremonies for Muharram and Ashura, and to uphold the religious rights of all citizens.
In the statement, published on Monday, 25 Jowza, the council emphasized that the authorities should create the necessary conditions for the proper observance of religious ceremonies and take into account the rights of followers of different sects within the scope of their responsibilities.
The Shia Ulema Council further stressed that security institutions are expected to facilitate the dignified and secure holding of Muharram and Ashura events, while safeguarding the religious freedoms of citizens.
The council also urged organizers of mourning gatherings and processions to fully cooperate with security forces to ensure that the ceremonies are conducted in a calm, secure, and trouble-free environment.
In addition, the statement called on speakers, preachers, and reciters of elegies to highlight the core messages of Ashura, including the pursuit of justice, a sense of responsibility, and the defense of Islamic values, while refraining from remarks that could provoke division or tension among Muslims in the country.
In recent years, Muharram mourning ceremonies have faced not only certain restrictions but also security threats. In several instances,Shia religious gatherings have been targeted in deadly attacks, many of which were claimed by ISIS.
The Shia Ulema Council of Afghanistan made these remarks amid ongoing concerns raised by Afghan Shiites regarding their religious and educational rights. These concerns include the removal of content related to Ja‘fari jurisprudence from the education system and the introduction of perceived religious restrictions.
The council expressed hope that this year’s Muharram and Ashura ceremonies will be held in a safe, peaceful environment with full respect for the religious rights and beliefs of all citizens.
Writer:Salima Aryaei
