A retired Pakistani army general, Inam-ul-Haq, has revealed deepening tensions within the Taliban, spotlighting a rift between the Haqqani Network and the Kandahar faction, in an Express Tribune article.
He outlined how disputes over the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), girls’ education bans, Pakistan relations, and governance are driving the divide.
Haqqani Network and TTP Ties
Haq highlighted the Haqqani Network’s historical links to North Waziristan and Pakistan’s tribal areas, noting their role in hosting TTP during the Taliban’s fight against foreign and Afghan forces, with backing from Pakistan and the ISI. However, he argued the Haqqanis remain distinct within the Taliban: “Loya Paktia under Haqqani control was never forcibly integrated into the Kandahar-dominated Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA). Instead, they partnered with the IEA, retaining autonomy.”
He contrasted the Haqqanis’ pragmatic outlook—forged since the Soviet war and open to engagement with Pakistan, the ISI, and the US—with Kandahar’s more rigid stance.
TTP Dispute
The general explained that Kandahar views TTP as a destabilising force threatening Kabul-Pakistan ties, yet lacks the will or ability to curb it due to Haqqani influence. Conversely, the Haqqanis see TTP as a “reserve force” for potential internal conflicts. Haq linked Sirajuddin Haqqani’s recent absence and foreign trips to his frustration with Kandahar, writing: “While keen to address TTP issues with Pakistan, the Haqqanis are unwilling to relinquish TTP’s military potential.”
Taliban Unity at Risk
The Express Tribune, seen as aligned with Pakistan’s military, noted that maintaining Taliban cohesion is increasingly difficult. During Sirajuddin Haqqani’s absence, Kandahar deployed forces to Haqqani-controlled border regions, asserting dominance. Meanwhile, the Haqqanis pursue independent ties with regional and Western nations, risking further estrangement from Kandahar.
Pakistan’s Strategy
Haq recommended a multi-pronged approach for Pakistan: sustained religious diplomacy with Kandahar, international efforts under the Doha Agreement, discreet military action on both sides of the border, a firm domestic anti-terrorism stance, and an exit route for the Haqqanis from their predicament.
Future Warning
He cautioned that unresolved TTP tensions could exhaust Pakistan’s patience, destabilising the region. Haq hinted at a potential anti-Taliban coalition of ex-mujahideen, disaffected Taliban members, and remnants of the prior Afghan government, warning: “Kabul may witness another power shift.”
