Former Balochistan Minister Calls for Action Against Taliban Regime

Jan Achakzai, the former intelligence minister of Pakistan’s Balochistan province, has made unprecedented comments urging Islamabad to take official action against the Taliban regime. He called for the transfer of the Afghan embassy to opposition groups and the establishment of a buffer zone for anti-government armed groups.

​Formal Recognition of Armed and Civil Opposition

In light of deteriorating relations between Kabul and Islamabad, Jan Achakzai, a controversial political figure and former intelligence minister of Balochistan, shared a direct message on social media platform X proposing a multi-step plan for the ousting of Afghanistan’s governing body. He asserted that the time for a change in the Taliban’s leadership has arrived and urged the Pakistani government to shift its policies from diplomacy to direct confrontation and support for regime change.

​Establishing a Buffer Zone and Air Support for Northern Fronts

Achakzai’s military proposals include the establishment of a 30-kilometer buffer zone along the Durand Line, effectively placing it at the disposal of armed opposition groups. He further advocated for targeted strikes against Taliban leaders, the destruction of Afghanistan’s air infrastructure, and providing aerial support to armed opposition in the northern provinces, including Badakhshan and Panjshir.

​Establishment of Greater Kandahar Office in Quetta

In a move that could stir ethnic and tribal sensitivities, this Pakistani politician suggested the establishment of a political office for the opposition under the name ‘Greater Kandahar’ in the city of Quetta. This proposal reflects an effort to create a strong political base near Afghanistan’s southern borders to challenge the Taliban’s power centralization in Kandahar. These statements come amid accusations from Taliban officials, who have previously accused Pakistan of sheltering and instigating opposition forces.