RASC News Agency: The Afghanistan Journalists Center reported that the Taliban’s Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice has officially ordered the closure of “Zhman” radio station in Khost province. According to the center, the Taliban ministry cited the presence of background music in one of the station’s programs as the reason for this action.
A statement from the center, quoting an internal source, confirmed that the station was formally sealed at approximately 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, November 6. The center further reported that the decision to close Zhman Radio was made by a joint committee within the Taliban’s local administration, which included representatives from the Ministry of Virtue, the Ministry of Information and Culture, the intelligence agency, and the Taliban police. The Afghanistan Journalists Center added that Zhman Radio had used only mild background music in one morning program focused on social issues, a minor infraction that the Taliban deemed a violation of their stringent media policies.
The Taliban reportedly sealed the station without prior notice or formal inquiry. Notably, Zhman Radio is the second local station in Khost to face closure in recent days over the issue of background music. Just six days prior, the Taliban also shut down “Gharghasht” radio for similar reasons. However, the station was permitted to resume broadcasting after three days, once its management pledged to adhere to the Taliban’s strict media guidelines.
Expressing serious concern, the Afghanistan Journalists Center called on the Taliban to reopen Zhman Radio without imposing any conditions. Established seven years ago, Zhman Radio airs programs on politics, religion, society, sports, and education. Its reach extends beyond Khost, accessible in parts of Paktia province as well.
