Retirees in Kabul Protest Again Over Unpaid Pensions

A group of retirees in Kabul has once again gathered in front of the Pension Fund Directorate, demanding the payment of their long-overdue pensions. These protests highlight the growing frustration among elderly citizens who have not received their rightful financial support for nearly four years.

Retirees Voice Deep Discontent Over Pension Delays

Abdul Raoof Amin, one of the protesting retirees, expressed his disappointment:

“We are demanding our pension payments. Look at what has become of this society. Today, people in need and the elderly receive financial aid from many sources. We are entering the fifth year without receiving any assistance from the Islamic Emirate, and we still have not received our pensions.”

Other retirees echoed Amin’s sentiments, emphasizing that they dedicated three to four decades of their lives serving the nation. They stressed that their retirement benefits, which were deducted from their salaries during their employment, must now be honored and paid without further delay.

Appeals for Justice and Compassion from the Elderly

Hussein, another retiree, spoke passionately about their plight:

“Our only demand is that our pensions be paid. We are poor and oppressed. Our rights must be given. We ask for mercy. We have no political motives.”

Similarly, Abdul Khaleq Amarkhil questioned the government’s commitment to its citizens:

“This is the fourth or fifth year. What kind of government is this? Aren’t we its citizens? Haven’t we served this land? Why is no one giving us our rights? Why isn’t the Emir al-Mu’minin paying our pensions? What was the purpose of that decree?”

Government Promises and Lack of Progress

Four months ago, the leader of the Islamic Emirate issued a decree to establish a special court tasked with investigating the pension payment process. Despite this official intervention, retirees report no tangible progress or updates from the interim government regarding the disbursement of their pensions.

Conclusion: Urgent Need for Action

The ongoing protests underscore a critical issue affecting thousands of elderly citizens in Kabul who rely on their pensions for survival. The government faces mounting pressure to resolve this matter promptly to restore trust and provide financial security to those who have long served the country.