How Haibatullah Akhundzada Became the Supreme Ruler of Afghanistan

Kokcha News Agency: Four years ago, Taliban leader Haibatullah Akhundzada announced his cabinet, marking the group’s return to power. Few could have predicted that the Taliban would ignore all political, ethnic, and social factions, distributing government positions exclusively among its own members. Haibatullah not only marginalized external groups but also gradually sidelined influential figures within the Taliban, solidifying his position as Afghanistan’s supreme ruler.

Initially, Haibatullah appointed a relatively weak figure, Hasan Akhund, as prime minister, surprising many who expected Abdul Ghani Baradar, a key negotiator in the Doha talks, to take the role. To prevent the rise of potential rivals, Haibatullah employed various political maneuvers, sending key wartime leaders to ministries. Baradar, despite his popularity, was made deputy prime minister for economic affairs, while Mullah Yaqoob became defense minister and Sirajuddin Haqqani was appointed interior minister.

Four years later, many of these influential figures have been weakened or isolated. Haibatullah has emerged as the unchallenged leader of the Taliban.

The Isolation of Baradar
Abdul Ghani Baradar, known for his ties to the Durrani tribe, his political acumen, and his pivotal role in the Doha negotiations, was widely expected to become prime minister. However, Haibatullah blocked his ascent, appointing Hasan Akhund instead. Two main obstacles stood in Baradar’s way: Pakistan’s strong influence over Taliban appointments and the Taliban’s desire to avoid immediate confrontation with Islamabad.

The Gradual Weakening of Haqqani
The Haqqani network, with direct Pakistani support, was among the first to enter Kabul and secure key positions. However, Haibatullah gradually marginalized both the Haqqani network and anti-Pakistani elements in Kandahar. He stripped Sirajuddin Haqqani of financial and administrative powers, taking control of all appointments himself.

The Fate of Yaqoob
Mullah Yaqoob, the son of Taliban founder Mullah Omar, suffered a similar fate, being reduced from an ambitious figure to a powerless minister. In the defense ministry, a close ally of Haibatullah now holds real power.

The Rise of Abdul Haq Wasiq
Unlike Haqqani and Yaqoob, Abdul Haq Wasiq gained significant influence, with the intelligence agency now deeply involved in societal affairs and foreign agreements.

A Powerless Cabinet
Most Taliban cabinet members have no real authority, lacking financial power or involvement in policymaking. Those who opposed Haibatullah were removed, including Abdul Kabir, who was dismissed, and Khalil Haqqani, who was killed.

Reducing Pakistan’s Influence
Despite Pakistan’s long-standing influence over the Taliban, Haibatullah has gradually sidelined pro-Pakistani elements. The Taliban’s policy toward the Pakistani Taliban (TTP) has also moved beyond Islamabad’s control.

Who Holds Power?
Haibatullah’s management style resembles that of former President Ashraf Ghani; only a few close allies hold real power, including the governors of Kandahar and Balkh and the commander of his personal guard.

From Obscurity to Supreme Leader
Just two years ago, many dismissed Haibatullah as a figurehead created by Pakistan’s ISI. Today, he wields absolute control, with no Afghan leader since Daoud Khan having such concentrated power.

Influence from Iran
Haibatullah, who resides in Kandahar, is heavily influenced by the Kandahar Ulema Council and his religious advisors. Many sources suggest he has been influenced by the Islamic Republic of Iran, with advisors and forces linked to the IRGC having a significant presence in Kandahar. Iran has established ties with Haibatullah’s inner circle, playing a key role in solidifying his position as Afghanistan’s undisputed ruler.