Afghanistan: Four stations in Logar may close down

According to a report in Pajhwok Afghan News (paid subscription), four radio stations, including a state-run one in central Logar province, may shut down due to lack of income and government’s support.

Shafiullah Afghanzai, head of Independent Journalists Union and manager of Zinat radio, told Pajhwok that the economic situation of journalists was worrisome.

He said after the political changes in August, media lost their income sources and dozens of journalists became jobless.

Head of Freelance Journalists Association, Matiullah Sarwar, said that the Taliban led government had no special policy so far to support media and journalists, leaving them with no idea about how to run their affairs.

He said at least 50 journalists were working in these stations in Logar and 10 female journalists lost their jobs after the regime change.

Munir Ahmad Azizi, a journalist, said he was forced to go to Iran via smuggling routes after the change in political system as he was not able to find a job after becoming unemployed.

Rafiullah Samim, Director of Information and Cculture, told Pajhwok there was no doubt that problems existed.

Allah (swt) is kind, there would be a way to steer the media and journalists out of crisis,” he added.