This archive report was first published on 29 September 2021.
On September 29, 2021, a group of Taliban fighters were seen having a blast at a fairground in western Kabul, Afghanistan. The scene was an incongruous one, given the group's reputation for brutality and oppression.
With AK-47 and M4 assault rifles strapped to their chests, the soldiers rode a pirate ship ride at the fairground, laughing and whooping as they were flung back and forth. The scarves and headdresses of the fighters flapped in the wind as they clung to colourful steel benches.
It was a far cry from the brutal rule of the 1990s, when the Taliban banned music, photography, television, and even children's games like kite-flying. The group has promised a more moderate rule this time around, but has already curtailed Afghans' freedoms, including excluding girls from school and sports.
Despite the fears of a return to oppressive rule, the Taliban fighters seemed to be enjoying themselves, posing for photos with their assault rifles and laughing as they rode the pirate ship. The scene was a stark contrast to the fears of Afghans, who are worried about the group's return to power.
As the sun began to set behind the hills, the Taliban fighters hopped into swan-shaped pedalos on the shores of the Qarghah Reservoir, laughing and giggling amongst themselves. The scene was a surreal one, with the fighters brandishing their weapons as they set off in pairs across the water.
