Retirees protest over overdue pensions as financial difficulties worsen

Kabul [Afghanistan], August 19 : Recently, many retirees have once again gathered in the streets of Kabul to protest the ongoing non-payment of their pensions, demanding that their retirement benefits be released immediately. These retirees are facing severe economic hardships and are urgently calling on the interim government to address their critical financial needs, according to TOLO News.

Retiree Ali Ahmad expressed his frustration, stating, "We are living in poverty and misery. I have even seen some retirees resorting to begging for survival." His remarks illustrate the severe plight many retirees are enduring.

Another retiree, Abdul Wasi, described a particularly dire situation: "I have packed up my belongings because the landlord says I haven't paid rent for three years, and despite this, no action has been taken. Additionally, I am responsible for three orphans."

This situation underscores not only the financial strain but also the added personal challenges these retirees face, as reported by TOLO News.

Other retirees have warned that without their pension payments, their living conditions will continue to deteriorate significantly. Zarifa, another retiree, made a heartfelt appeal: "We urge the Islamic Emirate to provide us with our pensions, as we are facing serious issues. We have urgent rent payments and sick individuals at home. Currently, our belongings are left outside in the open."

Abdul Khaliq, another retiree, highlighted his honesty by stating, "I have never been dishonest or taken anything for myself. Even when someone suggested I flee to America, I refused. Those who betrayed their country have left, leaving those of us who stayed in a state of poverty," reported TOLO News.

So far, the Islamic Emirate has not issued a statement addressing these concerns. Previously, the administrative deputy to the Prime Minister mentioned that the leader of the Islamic Emirate has acknowledged the retirees' issues, and a resolution is expected to be implemented through a specific mechanism designed to address the problem.