On the anniversary of Afghanistan’s independence, the National Resistance Council for the Salvation of Afghanistan has voiced concerns about the country’s freedom under the Taliban’s rule.
The Council, comprising former political leaders and politicians in exile, expressed in a Persian statement on Saturday that a large part of Afghanistan’s government is controlled by foreign countries.
The Council, referring to the Taliban as an “extremist and foreign-backed group,” said, “With the rise of an extremist foreign group, our freedom is once again being questioned, and foreign entities are exerting considerable influence over our internal affairs.”
The Council noted that Afghanistan gained independence on August 19, 1919, after years of struggle for freedom. The country hoped to establish effective self-governance, but several factors hindered its independence and stability.
According to the statement, the Taliban’s rule in Afghanistan has made the country a part of the “terrorist triangle,” which includes the Afghan Taliban, Tahreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), and Al-Qaeda.
The council also criticized the ongoing interference in Afghanistan’s internal affairs, calling it a major regional and global mistake that undermines the country’s freedom and independence. However, the council did not name any specific countries.
August 19 is the 104th anniversary of Afghanistan’s independence. Amir Amanullah Khan, the former king of Afghanistan, declared the country’s independence on this day in 1919.
The Taliban, who have been ruling Afghanistan for the past two years, also celebrate August 19 and have declared it a public holiday.
