The Taliban on Saturday marked five years since its return to power in Afghanistan with military displays, flag-waving processions and celebrations across the capital, Kabul.

The anniversary featured convoys of military vehicles, motorcycles and rickshaws decorated with Taliban flags. Crowds gathered near the former United States embassy, while security personnel carrying rifles maintained a visible presence.

Military helicopters also flew over the city as Taliban supporters celebrated the group’s takeover of Kabul on August 15, 2021, following the withdrawal of US-led forces.

Government spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid described the anniversary as a significant moment in Afghanistan’s history, saying the day would be remembered as a milestone for the country.

Authorities also planned sporting activities, including a cricket match, although women and girls remain prohibited from attending such events.

The Taliban seized Kabul five years ago after a rapid military campaign that brought down the previous Afghan government. Since then, the group has introduced strict rules affecting education, employment, media and everyday life.

Taliban officials say their administration has improved security and is working to rebuild the economy. However, unemployment and economic hardship remain major concerns, particularly among young Afghans.

The World Bank has estimated real economic growth at 4.8 per cent, although GDP per capita has continued to decline amid the return of millions of Afghans from neighbouring Iran and Pakistan.

The Taliban has also strengthened diplomatic contacts with several countries, but Russia remains the only country to have formally recognised its government.

Meanwhile, the United Nations has criticised what it describes as increasingly severe restrictions on fundamental rights. Women have been excluded from most employment, barred from several public spaces and prevented from pursuing education beyond the age of 12.

Press freedom has also come under pressure, with rights groups reporting cases of journalists being monitored, detained, assaulted or forced into exile.

As the Taliban celebrated its fifth year in power, critics said the anniversary highlighted a sharp contrast between the government’s claims of progress and the restrictions faced by millions of Afghans, particularly women and girls.