Richard Bennett, the UN Special Rapporteur on Human Rights for Afghanistan, expressed his condolences to the mourners of Muharram and emphasized the importance of observing Ashura traditions.
According to Tarz Press, on Wednesday, July 17, Bennett wrote on his X page that all religious ceremonies should be conducted with complete freedom. He stated, "Religious freedom must be respected, and Ashura traditions should be observed." Bennett's remarks come as the Taliban imposed extensive restrictions on Ashura ceremonies in Kabul and several other provinces, and lowered Muharram mourning flags in Herat and other provinces.
