Kabul, Afghanistan – Afghan filmmaker and social media personality Saleem Shaheen has come under fire after making controversial comments during a live TikTok session, where he reportedly called on the Taliban authorities to arrest Tedd Panjshir, a well-known figure from the Panjshir region.
Shaheen, who has long been a polarizing figure in Afghanistan’s cultural and political scene, used his TikTok platform to criticize individuals he described as “troublemakers and self-promoters” and specifically named Tedd Panjshir. His remarks, made before a live audience of thousands of followers, were quickly shared across Afghan social media networks, sparking heated debate.
Public Backlash and Concerns
Supporters of Tedd Panjshir condemned Shaheen’s comments, accusing him of using his influence to incite persecution and deepen divisions within Afghan society. Many described the statement as reckless, especially given Afghanistan’s fragile political and security environment.
“Calling for arrests on social media is irresponsible and dangerous,” one Kabul-based activist wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “Afghanistan is already suffering from political suppression—figures like Shaheen should avoid encouraging more hostility.”
Taliban’s Position
So far, Taliban officials have not publicly responded to Shaheen’s remarks. Analysts note that while Shaheen enjoys a significant following and has connections within Afghan media circles, the Taliban leadership has been cautious in addressing social media-driven controversies.
Broader Implications
Observers point out that this incident highlights the growing role of platforms like TikTok in shaping Afghanistan’s political discourse. Social media personalities are increasingly influencing narratives, often blurring the lines between entertainment, activism, and political commentary.
“This is a reflection of how digital platforms have become battlegrounds for legitimacy and influence in Afghanistan,” said one media analyst based in Europe. “Figures like Shaheen command attention, but their statements can also inflame tensions.”
Conclusion
Whether or not the Taliban will act on Shaheen’s request remains unclear. What is evident, however, is that his remarks have further amplified divisions and drawn attention to the volatile intersection of politics, personal rivalry, and social media in Afghanistan’s public life.
