Taliban Leader Calls for Merit-Based Government Appointments

DID Press: Taliban leader Hibatullah Akhundzada has called on civilian and military officials in Kandahar to base appointments on merit and competence, rather than ethnicity, language, family ties or personal relationships.Akhundzada made the remarks at a one-day seminar for civilian and military officials at the Kandahar governor’s office, attended by district governors, police commanders, security officials and intelligence officers.

He said officials should appoint people with the necessary competence to positions of responsibility, describing preference based on tribal affiliation, language, kinship or personal friendship as an injustice to the system and the people.

Akhundzada also instructed officials not to punish people accused of crimes without a court order, stressing that judicial procedures should be followed in dealing with alleged offenders.

He further warned officials against seeking power and positions, arrogance and conceit, and urged them to avoid misuse or waste of public funds. He also called for greater coordination among officials and for government orders and decrees to be clearly explained to people at the district level.

The remarks come as the Taliban leadership continues to issue directives to government officials on appointments, administration and implementation of its policies. Recent appointments announced by Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid have included changes involving provincial governors, police chiefs and other civilian and military positions.