Taliban Leadership Faces Internal Conflict Over Balkh Governor’s Alleged Corruption

The Defense Minister and Head of Taliban Intelligence received alarming reports about widespread violations by the Governor of Balkh during a secretive visit to Mazar-i-Sharif.

Details of the Visit and Findings

In response to escalating unrest and public protests in northern Afghanistan, Mullah Mohammad Yaqoob Mujahid, the Defense Minister, and Mawlawi Abdul Haq Wasiq, the Head of Taliban Intelligence, conducted an urgent and confidential visit to Mazar-i-Sharif. During this trip, they assessed security challenges and received troubling reports regarding extensive financial misconduct, including bribery at the Hairatan port, illegal trade in gold mines, and cooperation with smuggling rings involving Mawlawi Mohammad Yousuf Wafa, the Governor of Balkh.

Despite facing serious accusations during a joint meeting, the Governor of Balkh vehemently denied the charges and refused to be held accountable. In light of the situation, the Taliban leadership issued an immediate order for his removal and reassignment. However, citing his direct appointment by the leadership, Governor Wafa has continued to resist this directive. Political observers view this incident as indicative of deep rifts and tensions among the top decision-making layers within the Taliban regime.