Taliban leader Hibatullah Akhundzada has imposed a sweeping ban on smartphones and regular mobile phones around his residence in Kandahar, as part of a broader effort to restrict internet access across Afghanistan. Sources revealed to Afghan media that the move signals a deeper mistrust of technology from the reclusive leader, who is known for avoiding public appearances.
Akhundzada, who reportedly communicates via radio rather than using mobile phones or the internet, has already taken steps to block fibre-optic internet connections in the country. This latest ban, imposed on Sunday, follows his decision to limit internet access to a select few.
Sources close to the Taliban leader indicated that Abdul Hakim Haqqani, the group’s chief justice, met with Akhundzada last week to appeal against the restrictions. However, the leader was firm in his stance, reportedly saying, “I will accept no excuses. This is my order.”
Telecom officials confirmed that Akhundzada has authorized internet access only for a limited group of individuals, including business figures and some Taliban-controlled WhatsApp accounts. He has also directed the creation of a new telecom company to provide connectivity solely to the central bank, private banks, and diplomatic missions.
Efforts by senior Taliban ministers to dissuade Akhundzada from these measures have been unsuccessful, with talks between the Kabul telecom regulator and Kandahar leaders failing to reverse the decision.
