On February 12, 2025, Afghanistan’s Taliban government executed a man publicly in the eastern city of Khost, following his conviction for the murder of 13 family members, including several children. This execution marks the eleventh since the Taliban regained control of Afghanistan in 2021 after the withdrawal of US and NATO forces.
Details of the Execution
Tens of thousands gathered at the local sports stadium to witness the execution. According to Khost police, the man was executed by a relative of one of his victims, fulfilling a death sentence that had been upheld by the initial court, an appeals court, and finally sanctioned by Taliban leader Hibatullah Akhundzada. The offender was found guilty along with accomplices of breaking into a home and murdering an extended family, which included nine children and their mother.
The relatives of the victims had the option to pardon the convicted man, which would have spared his life; however, they chose to proceed with the death penalty, as indicated by the Supreme Court.
International Reactions and Criticism
Prior to the execution, Richard Bennett, the United Nations’ Special Rapporteur for Afghanistan, urged the Taliban to reconsider its decision. In a post on X, he described public executions as “inhumane, a cruel and unusual punishment, and contrary to international law.”
The United Nations has condemned the Taliban’s ongoing practice of public executions, as well as other forms of corporal punishment such as lashings and stonings. Bennett highlighted concerns regarding the fairness of the justice system in Taliban-controlled Afghanistan, stating that it lacks essential traits of independence and due process.
Since assuming power, the Taliban has strictly interpreted Sharia law, leading to a resurgence of public executions. Additionally, they have imposed severe restrictions on the rights of Afghan women and girls, prohibiting them from attending secondary schools, universities, and engaging in most forms of employment.
“Public executions are inhumane, a cruel and unusual punishment, and contrary to international law,”
noted Bennett, reflecting the grave concerns of the international community regarding the Taliban’s legal practices.