Murder of Afghan journalist condemned

Islamabad: A prominent journalist who worked as a parliamentary advisor in Afghanistan was murdered in broad daylight, sparking condemnation from political leaders and activists.

Mena Mangal was on her way to work when she was killed, according to the country's Ministry of Interior.

Authorities have vowed to bring her killers to justice.

Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said, "Mena Mangal was a brave journalist & advocate for women and girls, whose work was vital to advancing gender equality – not only in Afghanistan, but around the world. Her death is an unacceptable tragedy, and we must stand together to keep her legacy alive."

BBC reporter John Simpson tweeted, "Deeply shocked by the murder of the Afghan journalist Mina Mangal, gunned down in broad daylight Saturday in Kabul. She was a delightful woman, who decided years ago that she wasn't going to be afraid of the brutal primitives who constantly threatened her.

The US Embassy in Kabul also said, "We are saddened to hear of the killing of former journalist Mina Mangal in Kabul.

"Her work, and the work of all journalists in Afghanistan is vital to the future success of this country. Journalists must be protected."

Samira Hamidi, a campaigner in Afghanistan, stated that women and activists were "in dire need of a prevention and protection mechanism than ever. All responsible actors are accountable for not investigating the earlier crimes. Khalil Parsa,Masoud Hossaini, Humaira Saqib and many more attacked were never supported."