Marzieh Hamidi faces Taliban threats after cricket criticism in Afghanistan

Marzieh Hamidi, an Afghan taekwondo champion and competitor at the Paris Olympics, has faced severe online abuse after criticizing the Afghan men's cricket team for not condemning the Taliban's treatment of women. Following her remarks, she received a barrage of threats, including graphic images and messages suggesting violence against her. This harassment intensified after she highlighted the Taliban's oppressive laws against women, which require them to cover their bodies and restrict their public presence. Hamidi's criticism was particularly directed at the cricket team's interactions with Taliban leaders, which she viewed as tacit approval of the regime's actions. Despite the team's success, Hamidi believes they should use their platform to advocate for women's rights in Afghanistan. The backlash she received included over a thousand threatening calls and messages, prompting her to seek police protection in France, where she currently resides after fleeing Afghanistan. In response to the threats, Hamidi has taken steps to ensure her safety, including changing her phone number and receiving a bodyguard. Her family has also faced intimidation, with her father being approached by an unknown individual questioning his daughter's activism. Despite the risks, Hamidi remains resolute in her commitment to speak out against the Taliban's oppressive measures and advocate for Afghan women's rights. She has initiated the hashtag #LetUsExist to raise awareness and solidarity among Afghan women, emphasizing that they will not be silenced or dictated to regarding their choices and voices. Hamidi's courage in the face of threats highlights the ongoing struggle for women's rights in Afghanistan under Taliban rule.