This image depicts an outdoor public gathering in Mandisar, Afghanistan, under a clear blue sky

This image depicts an outdoor public gathering in Mandisar, Afghanistan, under a clear blue sky. In the foreground, multiple men are seated on metal-framed chairs with patterned fabric upholstery, positioned on a ground covered by a red and brown patterned rug. One man in the immediate foreground, facing left with his back to the viewer, wears a black turban and a light brown shawl. To his right, another man, seen from the chest up, wears a dark cap and a dark jacket, looking directly towards the viewer; he has a beard. In the midground, a raised platform is visible, also covered with a patterned rug. On this platform, a person is speaking at a light-colored wooden podium. Several other men are seated or standing on the platform, some wearing turbans or traditional head coverings. To the far right of the platform, a figure in dark clothing appears to be holding a rifle, standing guard. The background features a tall, light-colored wall or barrier, upon which two large banners are displayed. The left banner is blue and white, featuring text in Dari or Pashto, including "د کندهاره ولايه اميه قوماندانۍ" (Kandahar Province Police Command), and a logo with a stylized bird or animal. The right banner is predominantly white with text in Dari or Pashto, including "افغانستان اسلامي امارت" (Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan), and an emblem with black calligraphy. A white flag with black calligraphy, indicative of the Taliban, is mounted on a pole near the right banner. Another similar flag is visible behind the podium on the platform. A multi-bulb floodlight is affixed to the top of the wall structure above the left banner. A light purple/white flag is also visible against the sky, fluttering high above the wall on the left side of the frame.