#Breaking_News
Taliban shut down three local radio stations in Kandahar; concerns over increased pressure on media

The Taliban's Information and Culture Department in Kandahar province has announced that it has stopped the activities of three local radio stations, namely "Ziwar", "Tahsin-ul-Quran" and "Sangi", and has sealed the offices of these media outlets.

Taliban officials have cited the lack of official licenses, non-payment of taxes and what they call "substandard broadcasts" as the reason for this action. According to the department, the media outlets are obliged to regulate their activities in accordance with the laws and procedures set by the Taliban government.

In contrast, the officials of these radio stations say that the severe economic crisis, reduced advertising revenues and increased media activity costs have deprived them of the ability to pay heavy taxes and set fees. They warn that continuing these pressures could lead to widespread closure of local media outlets in Afghanistan.

At the same time, reports indicate that the Taliban have also warned a number of other local media outlets to align their broadcast content with the policies and restrictions imposed. This action comes just days after the suspension of Radio Bamyan, an issue that has increased concerns about the tightening of restrictions on the media.

The Afghan Journalists Center and the German-based Emso Media Protection Organization also announced in their reports that the Taliban are exercising extensive control over media activities by imposing strict regulations; in such a way that the selection of topics, program guests, and even broadcast content are under direct supervision.

According to the report, journalists and media officials face threats, arrests, suspension of activities, and serious restrictions if they disobey Taliban instructions.

Media activists believe that the closure of local media outlets, especially in the current difficult economic conditions, could further limit people’s access to free and independent information and further weaken the atmosphere for freedom of expression in Afghanistan.

Report; Samiullah Jahesh
Kabul Times News