The Taliban has suspended chess across Afghanistan, citing concerns that the game is associated with gambling, which is prohibited under the country’s morality law.
Since taking power in 2021, the Taliban has enforced strict and strange regulations based on its interpretation of Islamic law. Atal Mashwani, a militant working for the sports directorate, explained that chess is seen as a form of gambling under Sharia law, which has led to its suspension until the issue is addressed.
“Chess in Sharia is considered a means of gambling,” Mashwani said. “Until these religious considerations are resolved, the sport will remain suspended.”
The national chess federation has not held official events for nearly two years due to internal leadership issues. Azizullah Gulzada, who owns a cafe in Kabul that hosted informal chess matches, disputed the claim of gambling and pointed out that many other Muslim-majority countries have competitive chess players.
Gulzada expressed respect for the ban but noted it would impact his business and the community’s enjoyment of the game. “Young people don’t have many activities these days, so many came here to play chess and have tea,” he said.
In recent years, Afghanistan has also imposed restrictions on other sports, including a ban on mixed martial arts due to concerns about violence and its compatibility with Sharia law.
Women have been banned from participating in life, going outside and talking under the current jihadist regime.