The Taliban in Afghanistan compelled a 13-year-old boy to execute a man accused of killing 13 members of his family, including nine children, during a public execution on December 2 in Khost. About 80,000 spectators, including victims’ relatives, witnessed the act, which was carried out under the Taliban’s strict interpretation of Sharia law. The Supreme Court confirmed the death sentence had been upheld through multiple courts before approval from supreme leader Hibatullah Akhundzada.
Khost police said the victim’s family opted for Qisas, or “an eye for an eye,” over forgiveness. Spectators were prohibited from filming the execution, though outside footage showed the large crowd. UN Special Rapporteur Richard Bennett denounced the event as “inhumane, a cruel and unusual punishment, and contrary to international law,” highlighting concerns over the Taliban justice system’s lack of independence and due process.