Protesters vent defiance against Taliban amid uncertainty in Afghanistan

In light of these challenges, the Taliban have moved quickly to suppress any dissent, despite their promises that they have become more moderate since they last ruled Afghanistan with draconian laws.

Afghans wave a black, red and green banner in honour of the Afghan flag — a banner that is becoming a symbol of defiance since the Taliban have their own flag, on Afghan Independence Day, in Kabul, Afghanistan. Picture: Rahmat Gul/AP

Afghan protesters defied the Taliban for a second day, waving their national flag in scattered demonstrations, and the fighters again responded violently as they faced down growing challenges to their rule.

A UN official warned of dire food shortages and experts said the country was severely in need of cash while noting that the Taliban are unlikely to enjoy the generous international aid that the civilian government they dethroned did.