Fawzia Koofi Says Three Relatives Released After Week in Taliban Detention

Former Afghan parliamentarian and women’s rights activist Fawzia Koofi announced that three of her relatives have been released from detention by the Taliban after approximately one week in custody. She specified that the individuals were taken into custody on 8 Saur and were freed on 15 Saur.

In a statement shared publicly, Koofi said the detentions were carried out solely due to their familial ties to her and lacked any formal legal justification. She expressed gratitude for the coordinated advocacy efforts that contributed to their freedom, specifically crediting civil society activists, journalists, international diplomats, and the United Nations Special Rapporteur on Afghanistan for their support.

Koofi also highlighted the deteriorating conditions for women and political figures in the country. She noted that Afghan women continue to face mounting pressures and that the operational space for female political and civil activism has grown increasingly restricted under the current administration. Her remarks reflect ongoing concerns regarding the treatment of activists’ families and the broader climate for civil liberties.

The release follows a period of heightened attention to arbitrary detentions and the legal status of individuals connected to prominent public figures. Authorities have not issued an official statement regarding the initial arrests or the subsequent release.