Taliban Deputy FM Downplays Opposition Support, Asserts Group's Strength
Abbas Stanikzai, the Taliban's Deputy Foreign Minister, recently stated that no country supports the Taliban’s opposition, claiming their position is weaker than in 2001.
Abbas Stanikzai, the Taliban's Deputy Foreign Minister, recently stated that no country supports the Taliban’s opposition, claiming their position is weaker than in 2001.
In an interview with Radio Television Afghanistan on Tuesday, Stanikzai commented on the recent Moscow meeting titled "Afghanistan Between Past and Future," expressing that Russia wasted its time hosting opposition leaders.
The meeting, facilitated by Sergey Mironov of A Just Russia Party, saw participation from several anti-Taliban figures, including NRF leader Ahmad Massoud and Hazara leader, Mohammad Mohaqiq. However, Stanikzai dismissed the event's significance, urging Russia to ignore the opposition groups.
Stanikzai called on opposition leaders like Ahmad Massoud to return to Afghanistan for talks, but clarified the Taliban’s stance against an inclusive government. He rationalised this by comparing the Taliban's situation to other countries where victorious parties form their governments, arguing that coalition governments have historically failed in Afghanistan.
He further commented on the political structure of the Taliban, likening it to Western systems in some respects, yet distinct in its rejection of elections and demands for allegiance to the Taliban leader.
This perspective comes amid concerns from Western countries and neighbouring states about the Taliban's monopoly causing internal tensions and potential instability in Afghanistan. Despite this, the National Resistance Front (NRF) vows to continue its resistance until a democratic government is established.
