Internal disagreements within the Taliban leadership in Afghanistan threaten the stability of the Islamic Emirate, according to a leaked audio clip obtained by the BBC. The clip features the Taliban's supreme leader, Hibatullah Akhundzada, warning that internal divisions could lead to the collapse of the Taliban's government.
Akhundzada's speech, delivered in January 2025 at a madrassa in Kandahar, fueled existing rumors of a rift at the highest levels of the Taliban. He specifically cautioned that "insiders in the government" were pitted against each other, potentially undermining the entire emirate.
While Akhundzada's spokesman has stated that the supreme leader holds "absolute power," reports suggest that ministers, including Sirajuddin Haqqani and Mohammad Yaqoob, have questioned some of his decisions. The nature of these disagreements remains largely undisclosed, but their existence points to a potential power struggle within the Taliban's ranks.
This internal conflict occurs against a backdrop of significant challenges for Afghan women. Since the Taliban seized control in 2021, women have faced increasing restrictions on their rights, including limitations on education, employment, and freedom of movement. These restrictions have severely impacted women's ability to participate in public life and contribute to the country's economic and social development.
The international community has repeatedly condemned the Taliban's policies towards women, with many organizations and governments calling for the restoration of women's rights. Despite these calls, the Taliban has largely remained steadfast in its restrictive policies.
The potential collapse of the Taliban government due to internal divisions could further exacerbate the challenges faced by Afghan women. A power vacuum could lead to increased instability and violence, potentially creating even more precarious conditions for women and girls. The situation underscores the urgent need for inclusive governance and the protection of women's rights in Afghanistan. The future remains uncertain as the Taliban grapples with internal discord and external pressure to uphold human rights, particularly those of women.
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