Afghanistan has its first female police chief after appointing an officer with 25 years experience to head a district of the capital Kabul.
Officials said Colonel Jamila Bayaz would run one of the city’s most important police stations in a move that they hope will pave the way for more women to rise through the ranks.
The role of women in society is frequently cited as an example of progress made in Afghanistan since the Taliban were driven from Kabul in 2001, but human rights campaigners fear the gains are being eroded as Nato forces withdraw.
Colonel Jamila previously served at the Ministry of Interior’s offices in Kabul but will now take over the capital’s 1st police district, making her the most senior female police officer in the country.
“I think my assignment to this post will persuade others to join the police force,” she told Tolo News.
