A newly established committee of activists in a statement on Tuesday called for the release of Jawed Kohistani, a political analyst detained by the Taliban last week.
The committee voiced deep concerns over his physical and psychological wellbeing while in custody.
The group, comprising Afghan civil society and human rights activists, has called for Kohistani’s unconditional release, citing fears of torture and mistreatment.
In a statement, the committee urged international human rights organizations to take responsibility for ensuring Kohistani’s safety. They emphasized the urgency of his situation due to his recent heart surgery, noting that he requires ongoing medication. The group requested that the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) facilitate regular contact between Kohistani and his family to ensure he has access to necessary medical care, food, and medication.
Kohistani, known for his commentary on political and regional affairs, was arrested by Taliban forces on September 27 while traveling to his home in the Khair Khana district of Kabul. His whereabouts remain unknown.
The committee highlighted Kohistani’s long-standing commitment to promoting peace and stability in Afghanistan, stating, “During the 20 years of the republic, Javid Kohistani consistently worked to strengthen peace and security and provided expert analysis on the country’s ongoing developments.”
Since regaining control of Afghanistan, the Taliban have detained dozens of analysts, journalists, and civil society activists, many of whom remain imprisoned. Media and press freedom groups have reported that the Taliban have targeted these individuals for expressing views critical of the regime.
Recently, reports have emerged that the Taliban issued a list of approved experts to Afghan media outlets, instructing them not to invite anyone outside this list for political commentary. The Taliban have also banned live broadcasts of political programs by Afghan media, further tightening control over public discourse in the country.
Rights organizations have condemned these actions, calling them a severe violation of freedom of expression and media independence under Taliban rule.
