In Afghanistan, ongoing violence and human rights violations have left thousands of victims and deep scars on the civilian population. Thousands have been disabled, countless others have lost loved ones, and the suffering continues even after the Taliban’s return to power. Despite promises of a general amnesty, retribution against former government employees, journalists, human rights defender, and opponents continues persists.
A report released by the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) last August documented at least 800 human rights violations between August 2021 and June 30, 2023. These violations include extrajudicial killings, arbitrary arrests, torture, and disappearances of individuals associated with the previous regime. Among these victims was Jalal Qasimi, a dedicated prosecutor who served his country for 22 years.
On October 21, 2022, Jalal was targeted by a magnetic mine attack in front of the Attorney General’s office. He later died due to severity of his injuries on October 29 in Kabul Emergency Hospital, leaving behind a widow and seven children. His eldest son, Ahmad, now 20, has been thrust into the role of family provider, a responsibility that weighs heavily on him. “When my father was alive, my sisters and I were studying. But since they killed my father, life is exhausting for us. Not only can we not study; we are struggling to find food and clothing,” Ahmad said.
Jalal Qasimi’s family describes him as a man committed to justice, having worked in various provinces and held numerous positions within the Afghan judicial system. “The Taliban likely killed my father because he worked in the judicial administration of the previous government,” Ahmad added, reflecting on the probable motive behind his assassination.
Now responsible for his family’s survival, Ahmad faces daily hardships. “Life is harder for me every day,” he admits. With limited resources and no means of securing an income, he worries constantly about how to provide for his mother and siblings. The psychological toll of losing his father and the burden of his new role are immense. He pleads with human rights organizations to help his family find safety and peace.
Jala Qasimi: A Life of Service
Jalal Qasimi’s life was one of dedication and service. Over his 22-year career, he worked tirelessly to uphold justice in Afghanistan’s turbulent justice system. His assassination not only robbed his family of a loving father and husband but also deprived the nation of a devoted public servant.
The attack on Qasimi was part of a broader pattern of violence targeting former government employees. UNAMA reports indicate that civilians continue to suffer despite the reduced conflict-related violence following the Taliban takeover. Between August 2021 and May 2023, UNAMA recorded 3,774 civilian casualties, including 1,095 deaths and 2,679 injuries. These figures highlight the ongoing dangers faced by those associated with the previous government.
Ahmad’s life changed irrevocably after his father’s death. Once a student with dreams for the future, he is now the primary caretaker for his family. “We were studying when my father was alive. Now, we struggle just to find food,” he says, his voice heavy with the weight of his responsibilities.
The daily challenges are numerous. Food and clothing are scarce, and the prospect of continuing his education seems increasingly distant. “Not only can we not study; we are constantly worried about our basic needs,” Ahmad explains. The future he envisioned has been replaced by a relentless struggle for survival.
The psychological impact of his father’s murder adds another layer of hardship. Ahmad must navigate his grief while also being the pillar of support for his family. The absence of justice for his father’s killing exacerbates their suffering. “Most likely, the Taliban killed my father because of his work,” he repeats, highlighting the lack of accountability and the pervasive fear in their lives.
For the Qasimi’s family, the struggle is far from over. They continues to seek assistance from human rights organizations, hoping for a chance at a safer and more stable life outside Afghanistan. Their story is a stark reminder of the enduring impact of the Taliban’s violence and the urgent need for international support.
Ahmad’s situation reflects the broader human rights crisis and the suffering of victims’ families in Afghanistan. As he works to support his family, he represents the resilience of many Afghans enduring severe hardships. His request for assistance highlights the ongoing need for action from human rights organizations and the international community to address the safety and justice concerns affecting those impacted by the persistent violence in Afghanistan.
Names have been changed, and images have been altered to protect the family’s identity.
