Afghan Minister Sher Abbas Stanikzai Reportedly Flees Amid Taliban Backlash Over Women’s Education Stance

Kabul: Afghanistan’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Sher Abbas Stanikzai, has reportedly fled the country following a severe backlash from the Taliban leadership over his public support for women's education. The Taliban regime, angered by his remarks, has allegedly issued a travel ban and ordered his arrest, leading to reports that Stanikzai has sought refuge in the United Arab Emirates.

The Taliban regained control of Afghanistan in 2021 following the withdrawal of U.S. forces, enforcing strict interpretations of Islamic law despite earlier assurances of moderation. Contrary to their initial promises, the regime imposed sweeping restrictions on women, barring them from working in private organizations, dining alongside men in public spaces, and engaging in recreational activities such as visiting gyms and parks. The most severe restriction, however, has been the prohibition of education for girls beyond the sixth grade, a policy that has drawn widespread international condemnation.

On January 20, during a graduation ceremony in Khost province, near the Afghanistan-Pakistan border, Stanikzai openly criticized the Taliban’s ban on female education. Addressing the gathering, he stated, “Women are being denied their right to education. This is an injustice affecting 20 million people in the country. During the time of the Prophet Muhammad, education was accessible to both men and women.”

His remarks, a rare dissent from within the Taliban’s ranks, have reportedly sparked outrage among the group’s leadership. Taliban Supreme Leader Hibatullah Akhundzada is said to have ordered Stanikzai’s arrest, alongside imposing a travel ban to prevent his departure. However, sources indicate that the minister has managed to leave Afghanistan and is now in the UAE.

The incident underscores deepening tensions within the Taliban regime as it faces growing internal and external pressure over its policies, particularly regarding women’s rights. While the international community continues to denounce the restrictions imposed on Afghan women, the Taliban remains steadfast in its enforcement of conservative doctrines, further isolating itself on the global stage.