Afghan Women Demonstrate Against Kidnapping of American Woman

Hundreds of Afghan women gathered Tuesday to protest the kidnapping of US aid worker Cyd Mizell. According to the Associated Press, Mizell was on her way to work at the Asian Rural Life Development Foundation Saturday when she and her driver were taken at gunpoint.

The protestors called on Afghan officials to work for the release of Mizell and her driver, Muhammad Hadi. Kandahar Provincial Council Member Soraya Barana said "We are so sad and we want her to be released as soon as possible reported the New York times. We want officials and others to multiply their struggle to find her soon."

Rallies and demonstrations by women are rare in Afghanistan where women are increasingly under threat by the resurgent Taliban and other militia groups. This is especially true in the very conservative southern province of Kandahar. No one has claimed responsibility for the abduction and no suspects have been identified reported the Associated Press.


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Media Resources: Associated Press 01/29/08; BBC News 01/30/08; New York Times

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