Afghanistan: Commemorative events expected in Kabul March 7 and 9

Event

Events and gatherings are expected in Kabul on Thursday, March 7, to commemorate the 1995 execution of Abdul Ali Mazari. Authorities have issued an order restricting movement in the south-west area of Kabul city to avoid the buildup of traffic and large crowds. Additionally, events and gatherings to mark the fifth anniversary of the death of former Vice President Mohammed Fahim are anticipated on Saturday, March 9. A heightened security presence and transportation disruptions are to be expected in Kabul over the coming days. Attacks by militant groups targeting related gatherings cannot be ruled out.

Context

Abdul Ali Mazari, leader of the Hezb-e-Wahdat political party during the Soviet-Afghan War, was executed by the Taliban government in 1995. Mazari argued for a federal system of governance to allow for each ethnic group to hold constitutional rights. 

Mohammed Fahim, who died in 2014 of a heart attack, served as vice president from 2002-2004 and 2009 until his death. Fahim also served as a Field Marshall in the Afghanistan National Army and is credited with the Afghan Northern Alliance's capture of Kabul following the fall of the Taliban government in 2001. 

Advice

Individuals in Kabul are advised to monitor developments to the situation, strictly avoid related gatherings and demonstrations, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments.

The security environment in Afghanistan remains complex. Although travel is possible in some areas, other areas should be considered strictly off limits. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.