Kabul: An Afghan man convicted of murder was executed in public, Taliban said, first confirmation of such sentence since hardline Islamists returned to power.

Last month Taliban supreme leader Hibatullah Akhundzada ordered judges to fully enforce aspects of Islamic law that include public executions, stonings and floggings and amputation of limbs from thieves.

They have carried out several public floggings since then, but Wednesday's execution in Farah capital of western province of same name is first Taliban have acknowledged. "Supreme court was instructed to implement this order of qisas in public gathering of compatriots," Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said in statement, referring to "eye for an eye" justice in Islamic law. Statement named executed man as Tajmir son of Ghulam Sarwar and said he was a of Anjil district in Herat province.

It said Tajmir had murdered man and stolen his motorcycle and cell phone. "Later, this person was recognised by heirs of deceased," it said, adding he had admitted his guilt. It was not made clear how execution was carried out. Statement included names of dozens of court officials as well as other Taliban representatives as being present for execution.

Published in The Daily National Courier, December, 08 2022

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