RASC News Agency: Several media outlets in various provinces of Afghanistan have recently ceased operations due to challenges faced by the media industry. However, the Free Journalists Union of Afghanistan has announced that Radio Istiqlal has resumed its activities after a two-year suspension. The union published a newsletter on Facebook, stating that Istiqlal Radio, which had stopped operating due to economic challenges, began broadcasting again on Thursday, October 26. Hujatullah Mujadadi, the head of the Free Journalists Union, emphasized the importance of this radio’s reactivation in the field of information and expressed support for its employees.
During the reopening of Istiqlal Radio, Mujadadi delivered a speech highlighting the significance of this step in the realm of information dissemination. He stressed the need to support the employees of this listening medium, recognizing their dedication and commitment. Additionally, Obaidullah Nejrabi, the responsible director of Istiqlal Radio, mentioned that the radio has resumed its activities with a team of eight employees, including women. This demonstrates the radio’s commitment to inclusivity and gender diversity.
Despite the challenges faced by the media industry in Afghanistan, Istiqlal Radio has managed to resume its operations. The radio station initially began broadcasting in Kabul in 2015 and expanded its coverage to several neighboring provinces. However, the Taliban’s control over the country and their restrictions on media functioning, coupled with economic challenges, led to the closure of numerous media outlets across different provinces. It is important to note that women, girls, the military of the previous government, and the media have been particularly affected by the Taliban’s dominance in Afghanistan, as reported by various sources.