The 26th of Saratan marks the 51st anniversary of Mohammad Daoud Khan's coup against the monarchy.

Over half a century ago, Mohammad Daoud Khan orchestrated a bloodless coup that overthrew the monarchy of Mohammad Zahir Shah. On the 26th of Saratan 1352 solar year, he established Afghanistan's first republic.

The day following the coup, Mohammad Daoud Khan delivered a radio address to announce the end of the monarchy and the creation of the republic.

Although more than fifty years have passed since Mohammad Daoud Khan's coup, the significant impact of this historic event remains evident today.

Military analyst Mohammad Mateen Mohammadkhail remarked, “Following this coup, Afghanistan lost its peace, security, and prosperity, leading to internal conflicts and civil wars.”

After the coup, Mohammad Daoud Khan abolished the 1964 Constitution and introduced a new one.

Mohammad Zahir Shah had ruled since 1933, while his cousin, Mohammad Daoud Khan, served as Prime Minister from 1953 to 1963 before deciding to overthrow the king in the 1970s.

Zahir Shah, the last king of Afghanistan, officially abdicated on August 24, 1973, and lived in exile in Italy.

Military expert Asadullah Nadeem says: “This coup set a precedent in Afghanistan, leading to subsequent coups, including the violent one that ultimately took Daoud Khan’s life and those of several family members.”

During Daoud Khan’s presidency, his relationship with the Soviet Union and Afghan communists deteriorated. Consequently, after prolonged tensions, the People’s Democratic Party of Afghanistan, supported by the Soviets, assassinated Mohammad Daoud Khan and 18 members of his family during the 1978 (Saur Revolution).