Former Afghan Justice Minister Says Taliban Smartphone Ban Lacks Religious Basis

A former Afghan justice minister has publicly stated that a Taliban order banning smartphone use in government offices and universities has no basis in Islamic jurisprudence or Sharia law.

Mawlawi made the remarks in a Facebook post, describing the prohibition as a political and security measure imposed in the name of religion. He argued that smartphones are permissible by default under Hanafi jurisprudence and that the ban unfairly punishes the majority for misuse by a minority.

The verbal order was issued by Taliban leader Hibatullah Akhundzada during a meeting in Kandahar. It applies to Taliban members and government employees, with violators labeled as criminals who may face military courts. The directive has been communicated to the provinces of Paktia, Paktika, Khost, Logar, Balkh, Kunduz, Baghlan, Badghis, Badakhshan, Herat, Helmand, and Ghazni.

The Afghanistan Journalists Center condemned the measure, saying it represents a step toward greater control over freedom of expression. Mawlawi warned that the ban would cause widespread social, educational, and economic harm.