Clerics looking for Sharia solution to NGO ban: Dilawar

KABUL (Pajhwok): Acting Mines and Petroleum Minister Shahabuddin Dilawar says religious scholars are trying to find a way for women to work in non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in light of Sharia and Afghan traditions.

He said religious scholars were looking into the matter to find a solution in light of Sharia and Afghan traditions.

Dilawar in a video clip published by Tolonews said: “Religious scholars are working on this to find a way in light of Sharia and Afghan values. The letter of the Economy Ministry also states the ban is until further notice.”

The Ministry of Economy (MoE) on Dec 24 asked all national and international NGOs to send their female employees home until a second order.

The ban came days after the Ministry of Higher Education suspended female university education until further notice. Girls schools above sixth grade have already been closed since March.

Dilawar about the education of girls had earlier said: “According to my information, a decision will be taken soon about the girls primary, secondary and higher education. The decree of MawlawiHebatullahAkhundzada also mentions a second order.”

He had said currently schools and universities in most provinces were closed for winter vacations and a decision would be taken in the light of Sharia and Afghan traditions.

The Taliban’s decisions to ban women from working in NGOs and attending university classes drew strong condemnations on national and international levels and prompted multiple organizations to suspend operations in Afghanistan.

aw/ma