KABUL: The Afghan Taliban has declared Sunday, August 18 as a public holiday in Afghanistan to celebrate the country’s Independence Day.
The Taliban’s Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs has announced that this day will mark the 105th anniversary of Afghanistan’s liberation from British colonial rule.
Earlier this month, the Taliban also designated August 15 as a public holiday to commemorate their “Victory over the US and its Allies.”
While the Taliban acknowledges Independence Day, their approach to commemorating the event contrasts sharply with previous celebrations, particularly in their portrayal of King Amanullah Khan, who secured Afghanistan’s independence from Britain.
Under the former presidency of Ashraf Ghani, Independence Day was celebrated on August 18 with significant praise for King Amanullah Khan’s achievements. However, in recent years, the Taliban has openly criticized and disparaged his legacy.
In early July, Taliban forces defaced a portrait of King Amanullah at the Torkham crossing, replacing it with their own flag. This followed statements by Taliban Minister of Higher Education Neda Mohammad Nadim, who condemned Amanullah Khan for introducing what he described as Western values, including education for girls, which he claimed were contrary to Afghan traditions.
This year’s Independence Day under Taliban rule reflects a notable shift in how the holiday is observed. The Taliban’s reinterpretation of Afghanistan’s history emphasizes their ideological perspective, diverging from the previous celebration of Amanullah Khan’s role in achieving independence.
As the nation marks this historic day, the public holiday underscores Afghanistan’s complex history and the ongoing debate over its national identity.
The Taliban’s revisionist approach continues to influence how this significant day is commemorated across the country.
