Target: Mawlavi Abdul Kabir, Deputy Prime Minister of Afghanistan
Goal: Order investigation into former politician’s murder and help foster a more equitable environment for other endangered women.
Recent laws banning girls from school and women from the public sphere have starkly highlighted the growing humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan, particularly gender-based discrimination. More recently, a ban on women even serving in aid organizations has imperiled billions of dollars in United Nations assistance for Afghans. An act of deadly violence has now stoked new outrage.
When the Taliban forcibly retook control of the country, many female political leaders fled, fearing for their futures and their lives. Mursal Nabizada, a parliamentarian, stayed behind. She was one of 69 proud women who had won election to the nation’s governing body in recent years. She had spoken out against corruption and against decisions made by the Taliban since they reclaimed power.
Now this advocate is dead. She was fatally shot in her own home, along with her bodyguard. Another family member also suffered injuries. No arrests have been made, and many critics worry about the commitment officials will show in pursuing this case and the motivations behind the crime.
Sign the petition below to urge vigilance in investigating this disturbing incident.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear Deputy Prime Minister Kabir,
In recent remarks, you claimed that all Afghans were entitled to an education. Leadership has also proclaimed a commitment to promoting gender equality, despite actions to the contrary. By ensuring justice is served in the shocking murder of parliamentarian Mursal Nabizada, you have an opportunity to honor this vow in some small way.
Colleagues described this woman as “energetic,” “productive,” and “always busy working for her constituents.” She is the very embodiment of a what an Afghan politician should represent. Please stay closely apprised of this case and assure a comprehensive and conflict-free investigation.
Moreover, uphold Nabizada’s legacy by advocating for the inclusion of women in the educational, work, public, and aid sectors. Failure to adapt and reform will lead to widespread losses of humanitarian assistance and other crucial forms of support for this faltering government.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo Credit: U.S. Agency for International Development
Not unexpected. Let’s be honest about what’s going on in Afghanistan and the Taliban. They are supported by the people now in control as nobody will speak out for fear. What a place to live?
That’s the truth. It is a terrible place for women AND men to live. When the US held Afghanistan, women could finally attend school and live more freely. The religious nuts who run the country now are truly afraid that women are smarter than them, so they beat them in public and even kill them when they feel threatened. Any religion that tells you to abuse and kill other people just doesn’t make any sense to me. God is Love!