Several domestic and international sources have reported emerging tensions between the Taliban leadership in Kabul and Kandahar, Afghanistan. According to the reports, Sirajuddin Haqqani, the Minister of Interior and leader of the Haqqani Network, has sent a letter from Kabul to Mullah Hibatullah Akhundzada, the Taliban’s supreme leader based in Kandahar.
In the letter, Haqqani warned that if Kandahar does not align with Kabul on current issues, he will resign from his position and withdraw from active involvement.
Haqqani reportedly wrote:
“We established this system with immense sacrifices. Now, we demand reforms. If you do not stand with us, I will be compelled to step aside to avoid being held responsible by the people. My requests are that you respect and consider the decisions and demands of the National Council and the ministers, or reactivate the Leadership Council.”
According to the reports, Mullah Hibatullah has not responded positively to this letter. Sources claim that following the lack of a favorable response, Sirajuddin Haqqani has been consulting with his military commanders to decide the next steps.
It is noteworthy that while Hewad Press cannot independently verify the authenticity of this letter, a recent decree issued from Kandahar has reportedly curtailed the authorities of the Ministries of Interior and Defense in Kabul. This move is seen as an indication of deepening divisions between the Taliban factions in Kabul and Kandahar.
