Pensioners protest years-long non-payment amid growing hardship

KABUL (TOLONews): A number of pensioners in Kabul have once again gathered to protest the non-payment of their pensions.

They say that despite having spent many years serving the government, they now face severe financial hardship in their old age.

Abdul Wasi is one such pensioner who once dedicated his time to educating the next generation at a government school. Now, due to the non-payment of his pension, he is facing serious financial difficulties and is the sole breadwinner for his seven-member family.

“There are many of us, but all are waiting for pension payments. However, our hope that the Islamic Emirate will provide our pensions is fading,” He said.

“A decree was issued but not implemented. They said the judges would come, the judges did come, and they kept us waiting for six months. Now that the judges are here, the General Directorate of Pensions tells us they are waiting for the norm. What norm?” said Mirwais Salehzada, another pensioner.

The current demands of pensioners include the immediate payment of their pensions, resolution of economic issues, and serious attention from the caretaker government to their living conditions.

“We ask the Islamic Emirate and the Amir-ul-Mu’minin to pay our pensions for the sake of God, if not for their own will,” said Abdul Hakim, a pensioner.

“Why don’t they pay our pensions? What’s the reason? Is it forbidden? For God’s sake, give it to us, it’s our right. I swear to God, even if I die, I won’t forgive it; I want my right,” said Abdul Khaliq, another pensioner.

“Why are you confusing us? Why won’t you pay our rights? We spend all day wandering the streets,” said Mohammad Omar, another pensioner.

It has been nearly four years since pensioners last received their payments, and this has severely impacted their financial situation.

These pensioners, who served for years in various government departments, are now struggling with despair and economic challenges and are urging the caretaker government to take immediate action regarding their condition.

The issue of when the caretaker government will pay the pensioners’ dues still remains unresolved.