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 discord among the Taliban's top figures. He stated that these divisions could ultimately bring down the Islamic Emirate. The BBC reported that the speech highlighted concerns about "insiders in the government" working against each other.

While Akhundzada's spokesman has asserted that the supreme leader holds "absolute power," reports suggest that ministers, including Sirajuddin Haqqani and Mohammad Yaqoob, have questioned his decisions. These internal challenges come as Afghan women continue to face significant restrictions on their rights and freedoms under Taliban rule. Access to education and employment remains limited for many women, impacting their ability to contribute to the country's economic and social development.

The Taliban seized control of Afghanistan in 2021 as the previous government collapsed and the U.S. withdrew its forces. Since then, the group has faced challenges in governing the country and addressing the needs of its population, particularly women. The internal rift within the leadership adds another layer of complexity to the situation, potentially hindering progress on key issues such as women's rights and economic stability.

The ongoing power struggle within the Taliban leadership raises concerns about the future of Afghanistan and the potential impact on the lives of Afghan women. The international community continues to monitor the situation closely, advocating for the protection of women's rights and the establishment of a more inclusive and representative government.