- Taliban leader cites Quran to emphasize national unity in rare Eid address
- Internal power struggles emerge between Kandahar leadership and Kabul ministers
- Economic initiatives clash with ongoing humanitarian crisis affecting 15 million
In a rare public statement ahead of Eid Al-Fitr, Taliban supreme leader Hibatullah Akhundzada framed Afghanistan's political challenges through Quranic teachings, declaring the nation faces a golden opportunityfor reconciliation. The message comes amid growing international scrutiny over the regime's human rights record and internal governance disputes. Analysts note the unusually broad language translation effort (Arabic, Dari, English, Pashto, Urdu) signals attempts to court both domestic legitimacy and foreign recognition.
Observers highlight a significant governance pattern emerging since the 2021 takeover: critical decisions increasingly originate from Kandahar rather than Kabul. This power shift mirrors the Taliban's 1990s governance model, creating friction with pragmatic ministers managing daily operations. Acting Interior Minister Sirajuddin Haqqani's previous warnings about authoritarian tendencies now appear prescient, as Kandahar-based leadership consolidates control over ideological and policy matters.
Economic claims in Akhundzada's message present stark contrasts with ground realities. While touting infrastructure projects and mineral extraction plans, UN reports reveal approximately 15 million citizens require immediate food assistance. The healthcare system faces collapse with 200 facilities closing, while families increasingly rely on debt for basic groceries. This disparity highlights the regime's struggle to balance ideological purity with practical governance.
Regional dynamics play a crucial role in Taliban strategy. China and UAE's acceptance of Taliban diplomats demonstrates shifting geopolitical calculations, particularly regarding Afghanistan's untapped mineral wealth valued at $1-3 trillion. However, the leadership's refusal to reopen girls' schools above primary level continues blocking full international recognition, despite recent diplomatic inroads.
Washington-based analysts suggest Kandahar's power consolidation reflects unresolved internal conflicts. Professor Hassan Abbas notes, The emphasis on Quranic unity in Akhundzada's message confirms reported rifts with Kabul-based pragmatists. This theological framing aims to override policy disagreements.The regime's simultaneous push for international legitimacy and domestic repression creates complex challenges for humanitarian organizations operating in the region.