Acting Cabinet Is Due to Political Considerations, Says Taliban Spokesperson

Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid said Monday that the group’s continued use of acting ministers is based on political considerations, but stressed that the officials hold full authority despite their interim titles.

In an interview with Ariana News, Mujahid stated that while the cabinet remains temporary, all ministers and department heads have been granted full powers by the group’s leadership.

“The Taliban leadership has granted full authority and powers to the ministers and heads of departments, which are exercised within the framework of the institutions,” he said. “Being in an acting position does not mean their powers are limited.”

Since seizing power in August 2021, the Taliban have maintained that their cabinet is provisional and that a permanent government would be formed after further evaluation. Nearly four years later, however, all key posts remain filled on an acting basis, with no clear timeline for formal appointments.

Mujahid described the arrangement as being in the interest of both the regime and the Afghan people, though he declined to elaborate on the specific political factors preventing permanent appointments.

Observers note that such prolonged rule by acting officials is highly unusual in modern governance. No internationally recognised government has continued in this manner for such an extended period, raising concerns about the Taliban’s political intentions and internal cohesion.