In a ceremony marking the 106th anniversary of Afghanistan’s independence from British colonial rule, senior officials of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan gathered to commemorate this historic day.
During the event, Mawlawi Mohammad Yaqoob Mujahid, the Minister of Defense of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, emphasized in his speech that independence is not only about achieving freedom but also about maintaining it, which requires the joint efforts of the people.
He said: “One part is achieving freedom and independence, and the other is preserving it. In the past century, we have reclaimed our freedom and independence three times from those who forcibly entered and occupied Afghanistan.”
Fasihuddin Fitrat, the Chief of Army Staff of the Ministry of Defense, also stated at the ceremony: “Perhaps in previous years independence was celebrated, but at that time, the Afghan nation lived under occupation. Praise be to Allah, this is the fourth year that we are celebrating the restoration and independence of our country while it is completely free.”
Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, the Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs, stressed internal unity and avoiding divisions, noting that independence was achieved through great sacrifices but was not preserved due to internal conflicts.
He said: “Unfortunately, due to civil wars, divisions, and conspiracies, Afghans were unable to preserve this independence. We gradually lost our resources and became internally fragmented, eventually leading to colonial domination by other powers.”
Din Mohammad Hanif, the Minister of Economy, stated: “If we have a strong government and national unity, foreigners will never be able to infiltrate. But if, God forbid, we have a weak government and lack unity and solidarity, then foreigners will exploit our weaknesses and pave the way for another invasion.”
Amir Khan Muttaqi, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, also emphasized the independence of Afghanistan’s foreign policy and highlighted the importance of strengthening the Islamic Emirate’s security forces.
He said: “We will maintain an independent policy, and our security forces must be strengthened, equipped, and supported so they can safeguard this revolution.”
Abdul Haq Wasiq, the General Director of Intelligence, said: “This victory must be preserved to prevent Afghanistan from facing problems. Occupiers and their collaborators should not think they can impose their will on Afghanistan.”
It is noteworthy that in the past, this day was commemorated with public marches in the city, but the current celebrations lack the vibrancy of earlier years.