KABUL: Syed Mohsen Hashemi, husband of missing Afghan singer Zalala Hashemi, has publicly accused Taliban authorities of ignoring his pleas for help, more than a month after her disappearance.
In an emotional interview with Radio Free Afghanistan, Hashemi stated: “We’ve lost hope in the Interior Ministry. They refuse to cooperate, listen to my suspicions, or investigate leads.” He revealed his wife vanished 40 days ago while they were preparing to relocate to Germany.
The Taliban’s Interior Ministry spokesman, Abdul Matin Qani, offered a conflicting narrative, claiming their investigation points to Zalala fleeing “domestic violence” by her husband. Qani alleged she may seek divorce through official channels. Hashemi strongly denied these accusations, insisting their marriage was trouble-free.
The case has drawn attention due to Zalala’s fame as a runner-up on Tolo TV’s Afghan Star – a rare female contender among male performers. Her four-year-old son is reportedly distressed by her absence. Women’s rights groups have expressed concern over her safety amid the contradictory claims and government response.
Despite repeated attempts, Zalala’s family members could not be reached for comment.
Also read: Pashto singer Zalala Hashemi missing in Kabul; family seeks help
