In Afghanistan, Taliban leader Mullah Haybatullah Akhundzada has proposed a ban on smartphones. This proposal was made before the country shuts down the internet. According to reports, about a year ago, Akhundzada asked the Taliban scholars' council in Kandahar to find a religious justification for banning smartphones. He stated that these measures would not only stop negative criticism and subversive ideas but also help preserve the reputation of the Taliban.
However, many scholars rejected this ban. They emphasized that millions of dollars had been invested in mobile technologies and that smartphones are an essential tool for daily life, trade, and education. Additionally, smartphones allow citizens to express their opinions freely and access information quickly. Following this, the Taliban decided to cut off the internet. The goal was to restrict citizens' access to global networks.
Several ministers and specialists in Kandahar warned about the economic and social consequences of this decision. They pointed out that restricting freedom of information could hinder the development of the economy, education, and trade in the country. However, Akhundzada rejected their appeals and ordered the continuation of the internet shutdown. Furthermore, a decision was made to create a separate internet provider for government offices and diplomatic missions.
According to analysts, this decision and the new regulations are intended to provide economic benefits to people close to the government and to restrict the flow of information. Experts emphasize that this decision will negatively affect all areas of Afghan life. The restriction of the internet will not only limit freedom of speech but also disrupt education, trade, healthcare, and connections with the outside world.
The internet shutdown and the ban on smartphones in Afghanistan could pose a serious threat to the country’s stability and development. The Taliban leadership’s policies are not only expected to restrict educational opportunities for the youth but also disrupt the country’s economic connections with the global economy.
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