KABUL: In a rare move, Hibatullah Akhundzada, the supreme leader of the Afghan Taliban, departed from his secluded compound in Kandahar to visit Afghanistan’s capital, Kabul, where he met with top officials.
This visit comes amidst a series of localized conflicts between farmers and Taliban anti-narcotic units in northeastern Afghanistan, aimed at eradicating poppy fields, as well as devastating flash floods that have resulted in loss of life and destruction of property.
Addressing the 34 provincial governors at the Interior Ministry on Thursday, as reported by the Taliban’s Al Emarah website, Akhundzada emphasized the importance of unity and adherence to divine obedience. He stressed the implementation of Islamic Sharia law over personal interests and urged against nepotism in official appointments.
Known for his extreme reclusiveness, with only one publicly available photo, Akhundzada typically governs from his secretive compound in Kandahar, while his cabinet operates from Kabul to execute his directives.
Analysts speculate that this unprecedented visit aimed to reinforce internal discipline and unity, possibly in response to unrest in the eastern Badakhshan region. Recent clashes between Taliban forces and villagers protesting against the destruction of poppy fields, a lucrative crop banned by Akhundzada since April 2022, have raised concerns.
Amidst local dissent and the persistent threat of attacks from the Islamic State group, particularly in Kabul, Akhundzada’s presence in the capital underscores the Taliban’s efforts to quell internal disagreements and maintain cohesion.
As noted by a Western diplomat, “Whenever you see cracks or disagreements, then you have Kandahar stepping in reminding everyone and enforcing that (unity) as well.”
