Internal disagreements within the Taliban leadership in Afghanistan are threatening the stability of the Islamic Emirate, according to a leaked audio clip obtained by the BBC. The audio revealed Supreme Leader Hibatullah Akhundzada warning of internal divisions that could lead to the collapse of the Taliban's government.
Akhundzada's speech, delivered to Taliban members at a madrassa in Kandahar in January 2025, fueled existing rumors of a rift at the highest levels of the organization. He stated that disagreements among "insiders in the government" posed a significant threat to the Taliban's control. The supreme leader cautioned that these divisions could ultimately bring down the entire emirate.
While Akhundzada's spokesman has asserted that he holds "absolute power," reports suggest that ministers, including Sirajuddin Haqqani and Mohammad Yaqoob, have questioned some of his decisions. This internal conflict occurs against a backdrop of significant challenges for Afghan women. Despite initial promises of upholding women's rights within an Islamic framework, the Taliban has imposed severe restrictions on women's education, employment, and freedom of movement. These restrictions have drawn international condemnation and sparked protests by Afghan women demanding their rights.
The impact of the Taliban's policies extends beyond Afghanistan, affecting women globally as it undermines international efforts to promote gender equality and women's empowerment. The current internal power struggles within the Taliban raise concerns about the future direction of the country and the potential for further restrictions on women's rights. The international community continues to monitor the situation closely, advocating for the protection of women's rights and calling for inclusive governance in Afghanistan.
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