A Taliban spokesman confirmed Sunday that the militant Islamic group will now enforce a full spectrum of sharia law punishments against Afghans, further erasing two decades of U.S. influence.
Taliban leader Haibatullah Akhundzada’ decision applies to Afghan judges’ rulings for punishments of various crimes, according to the BBC. “Carefully examine the files of thieves, kidnappers and seditionists,” according to a tweet by Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid quoting Akhundzada.
The Taliban have not detailed the exact crimes and punishments eligible under sharia, but the militant Islamic group carried out public executions during its rule in the 1990s, the BBC noted. Examples of penalties under Sharia law could include amputations, stoning, and public lashings, one Afghan religious leader told the BBC.
The Taliban leader’s order represents the most recent rollback of rights and freedoms within the country, the BBC reported. Despite promising a more moderate rule, the Taliban carried out early public floggings and executions at Kabul’s Ghazi stadium, according to The Guardian.
