Smartphone Ban Ordered by Taliban Leader Hibatullah Akhundzada Hinders Journalists in Kandahar

The ban on the use of smartphones in government offices, ordered by Taliban leader Hibatullah Akhundzada, has made access to information difficult in Kandahar. Sources in the province report that the restriction has severely hindered journalists from obtaining updates from officials.

Journalists had previously used applications like WhatsApp to receive information quickly from government offices. Following the ban, which was imposed in recent days, they are now forced to visit the offices in person to gather the required details.

This change has affected the timely publication of news reports. The need for physical visits instead of online communication has slowed down the process of news gathering and reporting.

Local sources have indicated that the policy creates serious problems for media workers in Kandahar. The ban applies to government offices and limits the efficient flow of information that was once available through digital means.

As a result, the speed at which journalists can publish stories has been impacted. This situation affects how promptly the public receives news about developments in the area.

The decision by the Taliban leader has led to a shift in how journalists interact with government sources. In-person visits require more time and effort compared to the previous method of instant messaging.

Reporters must now plan their schedules around traveling to various offices to collect information that was once accessible remotely. This adjustment has made their work more challenging in terms of efficiency and timeliness.

The sources emphasized the difficulties faced by journalists in maintaining the pace of their reporting activities under the new rules.