In an unprecedented move, Mohammad Yusuf Wafa, the Taliban governor of Balkh province, has filed a complaint with the Taliban’s Supreme Court, demanding the trial of Sher Mohammad Abbas Stanekzai, the political deputy of the Foreign Ministry. The complaint was filed on January 21, 2024, following Stanekzai’s criticism of Taliban leader Hibatullah Akhundzada.
In the complaint text, Wafa cited seven instances of Stanekzai’s remarks as “indirect disrespect” to the Taliban leader. These statements primarily concerned restrictions imposed on Afghan women and criticism of the closure of schools and hospitals to women.
According to reports, Stanekzai has fled to the United Arab Emirates following an arrest warrant issued by the Taliban leader, with assistance from Defense Minister Yaqoob Mujahid. This incident reveals deep divisions within the Taliban leadership.
