The Taliban has intensified its hardline governance approach with a third round of governmental appointments, once again excluding women despite numerous international warnings and internal "timid" demands. The new appointments consist of a group of men filling the positions of deputies and advisors to ministers.
A total of 38 new appointments exclusively for men were announced by Zabiullah Mujahid, the movement's spokesperson, according to the Associated Press. The 38 new positions did not include any women and were all filled by Taliban members, with limited representation from minorities. Additionally, the government choices announced last night also included appointments within humanitarian organizations.
Mujahid had mentioned in late September the possibility of adding female members to the cabinet later, but he did not provide further details.
International Community Conditions
It is noted that these latest governmental appointments are the latest indication that the Taliban is not planning to comply with the conditions set by the international community, which stated that official recognition of its government would depend on its treatment of women and minorities. Nevertheless, the Taliban is still seeking international support while grappling with immense challenges posed by a faltering economy, a wave of drought, and increasing security threats from ISIS.
Since the armed group took power in Afghanistan after a swift campaign in mid-August, the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund have halted all financial allocations directed to Kabul. Additionally, the United States has frozen billions of dollars in assets deposited by the Afghan central bank in American accounts.
