RASC News Agency: Hizb ut-Tahrir Afghanistan has denounced the Taliban’s repressive and restrictive policies, asserting that in autocratic regimes, the number of hypocrites increases at the expense of true believers, as dissent is suppressed and a culture of conformity is enforced. The party argues that while the establishment of Islamic parties may be perceived as an imitation of democratic systems, the creation of a single-party regime is a clear mimicry of communism and dictatorship. In a recent post on its X account, the party emphasized that the suppression of dissent and criticism equates to the stifling of rational thought and intellectual progress. According to the party, people are no longer encouraged to think independently; instead, every aspect of life is dictated by the ruling system, leading society gradually toward “colonialism” and “tyrannical policies.”
Hizb ut-Tahrir further stated, “Disagreement is an inherent aspect of human nature, and Islam recognizes this reality. It is only natural that not everyone in society will think alike, and it is impossible for all individuals to share the same opinions. In such a system, people may either endorse government policies out of fear or personal gain, or they may quietly engage in covert opposition against the state.” The party added, “In a society devoid of Islamic parties, where the command of good and prohibition of evil are discouraged, the result is a politically apathetic and passive populace that easily falls prey to divisive policies propagated by adversaries.”
Criticizing the Taliban’s approach, Hizb ut-Tahrir asserted that dictators are not only incapable of establishing a cohesive community of Muslims, but also struggle to strengthen and expand their own society. Regarding the Taliban’s anti-party policies and prohibition of party activities, the group contended that some believe Islamic parties are merely imitations of democracy; however, if this is the case, then the suppression of dissent and the establishment of single-party systems are indistinguishable from communism and dictatorship.
The party emphasized that “the greatest affliction and temptation lies in the division among Muslims.” This statement comes as the Taliban has officially banned political party activities, repeatedly detaining and torturing individuals associated with parties, including Hizb ut-Tahrir. Any criticism of the group’s policies within the country is considered a criminal offense, putting critics under pressure and at risk of arrest.
