Afghan Victory Day
Afghan Victory Day is a public holiday observed on April 28th annually in the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan. Also known as Mujahideen Victory Day, this holiday commemorates the anniversary of the victory over Soviet Russian troops in 1992 and the beginning of the Islamic Republic in Afghanistan.
Afghanistan (Public holiday)This holiday is mainly celebrated by former Mujahideen in Afghanistan, and some Afghans are against celebrating this holiday because they consider it to represent the beginning of the civil war in the country. Afghan Victory Day celebrations have had to be canceled over the past few years due to Taliban threats and other security concerns.
The History of Afghan Victory Day
In 1978, the Prime Minister of Afghanistan, Mohammed Daoud Khan, was assassinated during a coup initiated by the socialist People’s Democratic Party of Afghanistan—otherwise known as the PDPA.
After the assassination, the PDPA seized power and sought help from the Soviet Union to maintain control in the country. In 1979, Soviet troops invaded Afghanistan, fighting insurgent groups such as the Mujahideen. Ten years later, in 1989, the war ended with the victory of the Mujahideen as Soviet forces withdrew from the country.
After the withdrawal of Soviet troops, the PDPA remained in power. They received support from Pakistan, and the war with the Mujahideen continued during the Afghan Civil War. On April 28, 1992, the Mujahideen overthrew the Democratic Republic of Afghanistan.
Observing Afghan Victory Day
On this day, a variety of activities are enjoyed by former Mujahideen members and their supporters. On the streets of Afghanistan, soldiers, supporters, and ex-insurgent fighters march and sing their national songs.
They also go to the mosque to offer prayers and dedications to those who have served and those who have died. The Mujahideen flag is flown wherever possible. Due to security concerns, these events are often canceled or postponed. Over the past few years, threats from the Taliban have been the main reason for these cancellations.
Afghanistan (Public holiday)
