Taliban Chief Calls Sharia Law “Lifelong Responsibility” At Takeover Anniversary; US Weapons

The supreme leader of the Taliban authorities said implementing Islamic law in Afghanistan was their “lifelong responsibility.” Hibatullah Akhundzada made the remarks in a speech marking the third anniversary of their return to power.The Taliban government celebrated their August 15, 2021, takeover of Kabul by holding military parades and gatherings across the country.”Brothers! Our responsibility of service to religion, ruling according to sharia (Islamic law), is our lifelong responsibility,” leader Hibatullah Akhundzada said. “We will implement Allah’s religion and sharia rule for ourselves and others as long as we live,” said Akhundzada. “Sharia and the Islamic system are getting stronger day by day,” he added while addressing security personnel at an air base in southern Kandahar.Akhundzada rules by decree from Kandahar — the birthplace of the Taliban movement. He has handed down a string of orders enforcing an austere vision of Islam since the collapse of the US-backed government in 2021.