Afghanistan: High-profile funeral in Mazar-e-Sharif Jan. 17; disruption likely

Event

A high-profile funeral ceremony is expected to take place from midday (local time) on Wednesday, January 17 at the Blue Mosque in Mazar-e-Sharif city, Balkh province. Heavy restrictions on movement and a heightened security presence, police cordons, and traffic congestion are to be expected.

The funeral is that of Balk Governor Engineer Mohammed Dawood’s father, which Dawood has been permitted to attend as a private citizen. Given the current political and militant tensions surrounding Dawood’s visit to Balkh province, and the potential for exploitation by anti-government elements, it is recommended that the area is avoided if possible.

Context

Dawood’s visit comes amid ongoing tension and rifts between recently dismissed Balkh Governor Atta Noor and the Presidential Palace, after President Ashraf Ghani dismissed Noor last month.  Noor has however refused to step down until government reaches an agreement with Jamiat-e-Islami party and until now had refused to allow his replacement, Dawood, into the province, thus forcing Dawood to set up office in Kabul.

Advice

Individuals present in Mazar-i-Sharif are advised to avoid the area, monitor the situation, and follow all instructions issued by local authorities.

Due to major security concerns, individuals throughout Afghanistan are urged to keep a safe distance from large gatherings, military convoys, government buildings, and crowded urban areas. Many Western governments advise their citizens against travel to Afghanistan due to the high threat of kidnapping and terrorism, including frequent attacks against Afghan National Defense and Security Forces, local civilians and politicians, and individuals working in the humanitarian and reconstruction fields. Travel to the country should only be undertaken with proper security protocols in place.