Sources within the Taliban administration have told Afghanistan International that Justice Minister Abdul Hakim Sharaei has ordered private broadcaster Shamshad TV to evacuate its building and hand the premises over to the Taliban administration.
According to the sources, the order was issued by Sharaei, although the reasons behind the decision have not been disclosed. It remains unclear whether the directive is connected to ownership of the building, an administrative decision or other issues involving the broadcaster.
Shamshad TV is a private Afghan broadcaster that has continued its operations under the Taliban administration. Any order requiring the station to vacate its premises could affect its operations and raise further questions about the working environment for independent and private media outlets in Afghanistan.
The reported directive comes amid continued concerns over restrictions on media organizations and journalists in Afghanistan since the Taliban returned to power. Media outlets have faced various administrative and regulatory pressures, while journalists have repeatedly raised concerns about limitations on reporting and freedom of expression.
The sources did not provide details about a deadline for Shamshad TV to leave the building or what would happen to the station’s operations following the reported order.
The Taliban administration has not yet publicly commented on the reported directive, and the allegations could not be independently verified.
Further details are expected to clarify the reasons behind the order and whether Shamshad TV will be able to continue broadcasting from another location.