Selfies, one of the scourges of modern society. No longer can famous celebs now scribble their autograph on a piece of paper, they must now pose for a picture with a pouting screenager who fumbles around trying to hit the right buttons whilst they feign interest.

But hang on, why are Taliban militants strolling the streets of Afghanistan snapping pictures mingling with civilians? Well when you consider the fact that they have active Facebook and Twitter accounts (according to the BBC, other sources say they have been shut down) it seems natural that they would embrace the latest way to endear themselves with the everyday man and woman:

…this is the first time they have exhibited this kind of behaviour on the streets.

Many will be young foot soldiers who have seen little success until now and they are in the business of trying to show a different side to their fighting spirit, having learned the lessons of the past. Their euphoria is unlikely to last as the militants are likely to be overwhelmed by the Afghan security forces backed up by coalition air strikes…

Several fighters, including Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid, posted pictures of Taliban members with their white flag at various points in the city to show their dominance, and the inevitable celebratory and victory images.

They are trying to depict a softer image of a Taliban fighter and the new leader’s statement was at pains to “reassure” the people of Kunduz. Just as the sudden assault on Kunduz is likely to be connected with his coming to power so is this approach to social media.

Insiders are sceptical as whether or not the Taliban’s social media strategy will succeed, with the staged nature of the shots perhaps alluding to the fact that the public still fear the group and are merely acting out of self-preservation.

Thoughts? Perhaps they should Tali-ban the selfie for good [cue choruses of booing].

[source:bbc]