The Afghanistan Journalists Center (AFJC) on Wednesday condemned the Taliban’s move to ban public employees from using smartphones, warning that the measure could further restrict journalists’ access to information and hinder news gathering across the country.
The organization described the directive as part of a broader pattern of restrictions on freedom of expression under Taliban rule.
According to AFJC, Hibatullah Akhundzada, the Taliban leader, issued the order during a June 7 meeting with several provincial governors in Kandahar. Information released by local sources indicates that the directive has been circulated in a number of provinces, including Paktia, Khost, Balkh, Kunduz, Herat and Ghazni, with implementation already underway in some public offices.
In a statement, AFJC said the measure, combined with previous restrictions — including limits on the publication of images of living beings — could seriously disrupt the flow of information.
Local journalists told the organization that communications from provincial government offices, which had often been conducted through WhatsApp, had already been suspended in some areas following the introduction of the restriction.
AFJC said the policy represented a further tightening of pressure on media organizations and an additional constraint on freedom of expression.
While the Taliban leader’s order reportedly imposes a blanket ban on smartphone use by public employees, several sources said enforcement has been uneven, with senior Taliban officials continuing to use the devices.
At least four sources told Amu TV that the restriction has primarily targeted rank-and-file military personnel and ordinary civilian government employees, while exempting senior officials.
According to those sources, the measure has been implemented in more than 20 provinces, including Kandahar, Maidan Wardak, Panjshir, Bamiyan, Herat, Sar-e Pul, Ghor and Kabul.
Under the directive, public employees and Taliban security personnel are reportedly prohibited from using smartphones not only in the workplace but also at home.
The ban follows an earlier verbal order by Akhundzada prohibiting smartphone use by employees of public institutions and members of Taliban security forces.
According to a document obtained by Amu TV, Taliban warned that individuals who violate the directive could be referred to a military court.
Meanwhile, images circulating on social media appear to show some Taliban members destroying smartphones. Sources said Taliban had set Tuesday as the final deadline for surrendering or abandoning the devices.
