Call for the Release of Imprisoned Journalists by Afghanistan Journalists in Exile

A number of Afghanistan journalists in exile have launched a social media campaign, calling for the release of their detained colleagues held by the ruling group in Afghanistan.

The campaign highlights the cases of Shakib Nazari, Hamid Farhadi, and Bashir Hatef, who remain in detention. Organizers say their arrests reflect broader and sustained pressure on independent media in the country.

Shakib Nazari was arrested in July–August 2025 on charges of cooperating with foreign media and was later transferred by the Kabul authorities to Bagram prison.

Bashir Hatef was also detained during the same period on allegations of working with Afghan media institutions.

Hamid Farhadi was arrested on September 3, 2024 by forces of the Interior Ministry of the ruling group in Kabul. He has been sentenced to two years in prison for allegedly collaborating with exiled media outlets and is currently held in Bagram prison.

Reports indicate that the suppression of media continues in a systematic manner. Dozens of journalists have been detained, tortured, or forced out of their profession, while others remain behind bars.

Critics argue that these actions demonstrate a lack of tolerance for independent voices and pose a serious threat to the free flow of information in Afghanistan.