Political Discussion and Quarrel among Passengers

 Written by: Naqeeb Ahmad Azizi

Most passengers might not know each other during travel in a vehicle but they talk among themselves and sometimes they discuss some political issues. The constitution of Afghanistan allows people to express their points of view but some passengers trample the freedom of speech of others and cause quarrels.

AEPO’s writer/producer has talked to some people about this issue.

A student, Taha, a resident of Herat province says, “Our home is far from the school and I go to school on a bus. One day when there were parliamentary elections, I was coming back home on the bus. Two passengers were supporting two different candidates. One of them cursed the other and finally, a quarrel took place between them. They disturbed other passengers and the bus driver dropped them off on the road.”

Rahatullah, a resident of Kabul city says, “One day when I was going to the bazaar by bus, two passengers were talking about two political parties. Finally, the bus stopped and they got off it and beat each other and when they got back on the bus, they continue their argument.”

What do people think about the causes of these issues?

Taha says, “The lack of political awareness causes quarrel in vehicles and most of the people think that they know more than others.”

Mariam Hashimi, a resident of Herat province says, “We do not have enough information about something, but we represet ourselves as the lord of others and we want others to accept what we want and these issues cause quarrel among us.”

How people could solve this issue?

Taha Shahidi say, “If we think about our discussion, and find positive points of our talking and convince the opposite side, there might not be needed for any quarrel.”

Najeeb Zhman, a resident of Zurmat district, Paktia province says, “It is better to be seated calmly on the bus and avoid any political discussion.”