5th anniversary of Taliban's return sparks human rights concerns

Some in Afghanistan's capital publicly celebrated the fifth anniversary of the Taliban's return to power on Saturday.

Taliban rulers and other officials gathered at Afghanistan's traditional Loya Jirga assembly hall to celebrate their return to power, touting having brought stability and an end to conflict after decades of upheaval.

But in Kabul, men took to the squares carrying Taliban flags and chanting slogans in support of the government.

Security was tight, with heavy Taliban security force presence and several check points on a main road leading to the Loya Jirga.

Celebrations were also held in provinces across Afghanistan, as signs of Taliban's return to power were displayed along major roads and marketplaces.

A top United Nations official, however, warned of a grave human rights crisis in the country where girls above the age of 12 are denied an education.

Women have also been banned from public spaces such as gyms and parks, from taking part in sports and travelling to distant locations without a male guardian.