Photo of Mullah Omar Visible in Taliban Public Works Minister's Office Amid Image Ban
KABUL — Official photos published by Afghanistan's Ministry of Public Works on social media show a picture of Mullah Mohammad Omar displayed in Acting Minister Mohammad Eisa Thani's office during a meeting with Iranian Ambassador Alireza Beikdeli on April 7, 2026 (18 Hamal).
The image of the Taliban's late founder appears on a book cover in a cabinet behind Thani, as captured in images from the meeting released by the ministry.
The display contradicts Article 17 of the Taliban's Amr bil Ma'ruf and Nahi anil Munkar law, which prohibits the publication of images of living beings, especially humans. The Taliban has enforced the ban in at least 25 provinces, with plans for further expansion.
Implementation of the image ban has revealed internal divisions within Taliban leadership. The prime minister, higher education minister, and Amr bil Ma'ruf minister have complied by avoiding the publication of photos. In contrast, deputy prime ministers, the interior minister, and the defense minister have continued to share images on social media.
The ministry's release of the photos underscores ongoing debates over adherence to the morality enforcement law.
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