Demonstrations for women's rights in Afghanistan's Herat province

Kabul, Ta. 3

Three dozen women protested in front of the governor's office in Afghanistan's western Herat province over women's rights. These women have demanded the protection of women's rights before the new Taliban government.

Friba Kabarzani, who organized the rally today, said women should also be given political participation in the new government. He said women should have a place in the cabinet, Loya Jirga or Elder Council.

He further said that Afghan women have been fighting for their rights for the last 20 years. We want the world to hear our voice. We want our rights to be protected.

"Even though the Taliban leaders are giving beautiful speeches on TV, we have learned that they have started beating women again," said Maryam Ibrahim, another woman who took part in the rally.

The women said they have decided to continue the demonstrations and the fight for their officers will continue. The Taliban wants us to remain calm but we will not remain silent.