Zarqa Yaftali, the head of the Women’s and Children’s Rights Research Organization, says that five employees of this organization have been released from Taliban custody after 68 days of detention.

Ms. Yaftali, in a statement, said that Sultan Ali Rahimi, Hamed Siddiqi, Sayem Hazim, Qadir Hamidi, and Bismillah were released from Taliban prison on Tuesday, the 22nd of September, but Abdul Matin Hakimi remains in the group’s detention.

She added that these individuals were “innocent” and were detained only because of their research and educational activities, and their advocacy for women’s rights and girls’ education.

She expressed gratitude for the efforts and support of the people, influential figures, human rights organizations, civil activists, the media, and diplomatic missions of countries for the release of these five individuals.

In this statement, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on Human Rights in Afghanistan was also thanked for their stance, follow-up, and advocacy in this regard.

However, Zarqa Yaftali emphasized that Abdul Matin Hakimi remains in Taliban detention, and his wife, three children, and family are awaiting his release.

Ms. Yaftali once again emphasized Mr. Hakimi’s fundamental and legal rights and called for his release as soon as possible.

It is worth noting that the employees of this organization were detained by the Taliban some time ago.