The internal discord and lack of coherent direction among Afghanistan’s former political elites and opposition factions have drawn fierce criticism from within their own ranks. Shah Mahmood Miakhel, former Deputy Minister of Defense under the republic system, recently voiced deep frustration over the current political landscape, the Taliban’s ongoing misrule, and the disjointed maneuvers of various self-appointed opposition processes.
Expressing bewilderment at the state of affairs, Miakhel highlighted the absurdity of the current environment, questioning whether to mock the governance style of the ruling setup, reflect on historical uprisings, or weep for the ongoing suffering of ordinary citizens. He specifically took aim at fragmented efforts such as self-declared governments-in-exile, unilateral distributions of military ranks, and persistent mudslinging against political and religious figures. Furthermore, he condemned external interference, dismissing statements from Iran’s IRGC viewing Afghanistan as a defensive belt, while also criticizing factions that support foreign airstrikes harmful to national sovereignty.
Addressing social media activists, former republic leaders, and lobbyists, Miakhel urged an immediate end to deceptive narratives and online bickering, stressing that real political futures are built on substance rather than virtual noise. He lamented that the general public remains caught in the crossfire, often forced to passively witness endless turmoil. Observers note that until exiled and opposition factions abandon personal ambitions and fragmented posturing, they will remain incapable of offering a credible, unified alternative for Afghanistan’s future.