KABUL: The Taliban government has launched a major Taliban Security Forces Reduction plan, cutting its security personnel by 20 percent. Defence Minister Yaqub Mujahid signed an internal letter ordering the dismissals. According to the document, the process must start by removing those labelled “undesirable and unpopular.”
The order was sent to the Ministry of Interior and the General Directorate of Intelligence. It follows a broader directive issued by Taliban leader Hibatullah Akhundzada on April 12. The leadership instructed key security agencies, including the Ministry of Defence, to reduce staff due to financial strain. Those removed will be shifted to “active reserve” status under the Taliban Security Forces Reduction plan.
The Security and Clearance Commission, chaired by Mujahid, stressed careful action to avoid damaging the system. Citing Order No. 5528 from March 27, 2025, the commission laid out a step-by-step approach to the downsizing.
First, personnel considered “undesirable and unpopular” will be dismissed. Next, cuts will target those hired after the Taliban’s return to power. Further phases will affect relatives of “martyrs” (except close family), individuals refusing formal employment, households with more than two fighters, elderly members, and those with little history of militant activity.
The Ministry of Defence received direct orders for immediate implementation. However, concerns have emerged that this Taliban Security Forces Reduction may not align with Akhundzada’s earlier instructions. His initial order advised starting the layoffs with auxiliary staff like contracted guards. He had also approved a monthly payment of 5,000 Afghanis to dismissed workers.
Critics fear the term “undesirable” could be misused. Some believe it may serve as a tool to quietly remove employees linked to the former Afghan Republic under the excuse of administrative reforms.
The Taliban Security Forces Reduction has already sparked anger among fighters affected by the layoffs. In recent weeks, social media has been flooded with complaints. Many dismissed guards say they have been unfairly targeted despite their loyal service.
Observers warn that if grievances continue to rise, it could trigger deeper dissatisfaction within Taliban ranks, complicating internal stability.
