Former Afghan MP Accuses Taliban Leader of Fueling Ethnic Tensions

Khalid Pashtun, a former member of the Afghan parliament, has criticized recent orders issued by the Taliban leadership, stating that if Hibatullah Akhundzada genuinely seeks to improve the situation, he must begin with himself.

According to Pashtun, while the Taliban leader speaks of unity and obedience, his policies and approach have in practice exacerbated ethnic and linguistic sensitivities in the country—an issue with profound social and political implications in Afghanistan’s multi-ethnic society.

The former parliamentarian also emphasized that a large part of the Taliban’s structure does not actually adhere to the commands issued by Hibatullah, and various factions within the administration act independently based on their own interests and desires.

Pashtun’s remarks come amid repeated claims by the Taliban administration about issuing central orders to regulate affairs. However, critics argue that the lack of transparency, accountability, and fair participation has rendered these orders ineffective and merely symbolic documents.