Taliban bans chess in Afghanistan

The Taliban government in Afghanistan has imposed a ban on chess, citing concerns that the game could encourage gambling.

Officials announced that the sport would remain prohibited indefinitely until its compatibility with the law is clarified.

Atal Mashwani, a spokesperson for the Taliban's sports directorate, explained on Sunday that chess is seen as a form of gambling under Islamic Sharia law. "There are religious considerations regarding the sport of chess," Mashwani told Agence France-Presse (AFP). "Until these considerations are addressed, the sport of chess is suspended in Afghanistan."

The chess ban is part of a broader trend under the Taliban's rule since it seized power in August 2021, with the government steadily enforcing strict regulations grounded in its interpretation of Islamic law. Many public spaces and activities have faced restrictions, particularly those involving women. Women are essentially barred from participating in sports altogether under the current regime.

Azizullah Gulzada, a cafe owner in Kabul who had hosted informal chess competitions in recent years, expressed disappointment over the new policy. He acknowledged the government's decision but noted that it would negatively impact his business.

"Young people don't have a lot of activities these days, so many came here every day," Gulzada said. "They would have a cup of tea and challenge their friends to a game of chess."

Gulzada also pointed out that chess is played in many other Muslim-majority countries, highlighting the contrast with Afghanistan's new restrictions.

This move follows last year's ban on mixed martial arts (MMA) in professional competition, which was prohibited by the Taliban on the grounds that it was too violent and violated Sharia principles. A Taliban spokesperson explained that MMA "has many aspects which are contradictory to the teachings of Islam" and was outlawed due to its "face-punching" nature.