The Kabul Tribune (KT) — Afghanistan's Taliban authorities have declared Aug. 19 a public holiday to mark the 107th anniversary of the country's independence from Britain.
The Taliban-run Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs announced Wednesday that the day would be a public holiday across the country.
The announcement comes days after the ministry declared Aug. 15 a public holiday to mark what the Taliban called the “victory over the occupation of the United States and its allies.” Ceremonies were held in Kabul and several provinces to commemorate the occasion.
Afghanistan gained independence from British control of its foreign affairs in 1919 under King Amanullah Khan, following the Third Anglo-Afghan War. Aug. 19 is observed as Afghanistan's Independence Day.
The Taliban have continued to mark the anniversary since returning to power in 2021, but celebrations under their rule have generally placed less emphasis on Amanullah Khan and his role in securing Afghanistan's independence.
The Taliban's portrayal of Amanullah Khan and the symbols associated with Afghan independence has also shifted over the years, reflecting broader changes in how the group presents the country's history and national identity.
The 107th anniversary comes as Afghanistan remains under Taliban rule following the group's takeover of Kabul in August 2021 and the withdrawal of U.S. and allied forces from the country.
