Kabul — The Taliban government has imposed a nationwide ban on chess in Afghanistan, citing concerns that the game encourages gambling — an act prohibited under Islamic law. The ban, announced on Sunday, is the latest in a series of restrictions reflective of the regime’s strict interpretation of Sharia since it regained power in 2021.
“Chess in Sharia is considered a means of gambling,” said Atal Mashwani, spokesperson for the Taliban’s sports directorate. “Until these religious considerations are addressed, the sport of chess is suspended in Afghanistan.”
The ban has prompted criticism from players and business owners who argue that the game has long been played without links to gambling. Azizullah Gulzada, owner of a popular Kabul café known for hosting informal chess matches, said, “Many other Islamic countries have players on an international level.” He insisted no betting occurred during matches at his establishment and warned that the decision would negatively impact both his business and youth engagement.
“Young people don’t have many recreational activities these days. Many used to come, have tea, and enjoy a game of chess,” Gulzada told AFP.
According to Mashwani, the Afghan Chess Federation has not held any official tournaments in nearly two years, partly due to internal leadership issues.
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The chess ban follows a broader trend of sports restrictions in Afghanistan. The Taliban previously outlawed women’s participation in sports and banned combat sports like mixed martial arts (MMA), labeling them too “violent” and “in conflict with Islamic principles.”
Rights groups and observers continue to express concern over the diminishing space for recreational, cultural, and professional activities in the country, particularly among youth and women.
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