Recent reports of deep divisions within the Taliban’s leadership have raised questions about the group’s internal dynamics. However, some Taliban officials have dismissed these claims without providing clear explanations, insisting that no disagreements exist among their ranks.
Anas Haqqani, a member of the Taliban’s leadership council, recently denied such reports, stating, “No one should attempt to sow discord. There are no disagreements among our officials at the leadership level.” Similarly, Mullah Baradar, the Taliban’s deputy prime minister for economic affairs, asserted at the funeral of Khalil-ur-Rahman Haqqani, the late Minister for Refugees, that there are no internal disputes within the group.
These statements come amid increasing evidence of significant internal rifts. One such indication was the absence of Mullah Haibatullah Akhundzada, the Taliban’s supreme leader, from the funeral of Khalil-ur-Rahman Haqqani, a prominent figure within the group. This absence has fueled speculation about serious divisions within the Taliban’s leadership.
Reports suggest that these disagreements are rooted in fundamental issues such as power distribution, decision-making processes, approaches to international engagement, and policies regarding women’s education and employment in Afghanistan.
The United Nations, in a recent report, highlighted disagreements among Taliban leaders over how to handle the Pakistani Taliban. According to informed sources speaking to Tarz Press, these disputes are particularly evident between Mullah Haibatullah and the Haqqani network. Sources indicate that Sirajuddin Haqqani, leader of the Haqqani network, is perceived as more flexible compared to Mullah Haibatullah.
Previously, The New York Times painted a somewhat moderate picture of Sirajuddin Haqqani, who stated that “the Taliban have closed the chapter of war and violence and opened a new chapter of positive engagement and relations with the international community.”
According to insiders, Sirajuddin Haqqani is keen on engaging with the international community and supports a “give-and-take” approach. However, Mullah Haibatullah and his inner circle reportedly aim to undermine Haqqani’s role, portraying him as powerless and without authority.
In a recent move, Mullah Haibatullah stripped the Taliban’s Interior Ministry, Defense Ministry, and General Directorate of Intelligence of the authority to distribute weapons. Sources believe this was an effort to curtail Sirajuddin Haqqani’s influence within the Taliban’s security apparatus.
While some Taliban officials continue to deny reports of leadership disputes, they have yet to provide compelling evidence or explanations to support their claims. These emerging tensions, if unresolved, could have significant implications for the Taliban’s internal cohesion and their ability to govern Afghanistan effectively.
