Taliban Commander in Badakhshan Defies Appointments and Mining Restrictions

Taliban commander Juma Khan Fateh has defied orders from the central leadership by refusing an appointment as deputy governor of Zabul province. The commander, who is based in the Darwaz district of Badakhshan, has also opposed bans on mining and has not allowed his forces to be disarmed.

In Nesi district, Fateh has put his forces on alert status. He has made clear that he will not initiate any fighting and believes the leadership will choose not to engage in conflict with him.

Meanwhile, Maqboolullah Hamid has not reported for work as deputy governor of Ghor province for a period exceeding one month. Hamid comes from Dara-e-Khastak in the Jorm district of Badakhshan and previously served as chief of staff of the 217th Omari Division there.

It is indicated that mining interests in Badakhshan provide more financial gain than his role in Ghor.

The leadership of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan sees such actions as a form of rebellion. Due to Badakhshan's difficult terrain, its position along borders with three countries, existing local dissatisfaction, and the possibility of escalation, the leadership seems to favor dialogue instead of military measures.