Afghans protest Taliban in emerging challenge to their rule

By AHMAD SEIR, RAHIM FAIEZ, KATHY GANNON AND JON GAMBRELL
Associated Press

KABUL, Afghanistan (AP) — Afghan protesters have defied the Taliban for a second day, waving their national flag in scattered demonstrations. The fighters again responded violently Thursday as they face down growing challenges to their rule. A U.N. official warned of dire food shortages and experts said the country was severely in need of cash while noting that the Taliban are unlikely to enjoy the generous international aid that the civilian government they dethroned did. In light of these challenges, the Taliban have moved quickly to suppress any dissent, despite their promises that they have become more moderate since they last ruled Afghanistan with draconian laws. Many fear they will succeed in erasing two decades of efforts to expand women’s and human rights and remake the country.