SIGAR Report: Afghanistan’s Central Bank Operated Under Taliban’s Directives

In a recent Congressional report, the US Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR) revealed that comprehensive assessments indicate a lack of autonomy for the Central Bank of Afghanistan, with notable deficiencies in its financial operations.

According to SIGAR, these conclusions stem from an evaluation conducted by a designated American financial institution tasked with appraising the performance of Afghanistan’s Central Bank. SIGAR’s quarterly report to Congress highlights the outcomes of this assessment, revealing challenges in the management of the Central Bank.

The report raises concerns about the bank’s independence, notably pointing to the prominent roles held by three Taliban officials who lead the institution and are subject to sanctions by both the United States and the United Nations.