Leaders opposing Taliban announce government-in-exile in Afghanistan

Kabul: – Afghan leaders who went underground after Taliban militants took control of Kabul have announced a government-in-exile. Former Vice President Amrullah Saleh will head the exiled government, according to the embassy of ‘Islamic Republic of Afghanistan’ in Switzerland. With no country recognising the Taliban so far, Saleh’s government-in-exile receives international support, which could pose the biggest challenge for the Taliban.

The Taliban has declared its rule in Afghanistan as the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan. But the Taliban regime has not received international recognition. Two days ago, the United Nations refused to allow the Taliban to represent Afghanistan in the General Assembly. Pakistan and China, which advocate for the Taliban daily, have not officially recognised the Taliban government.

In such a scenario, the announcement made by the Afghan embassy in Switzerland of the formation of government-in-exile under Saleh’s leadership is significant. Currently, this government’s executive, judicial and legal departments are operational, and the names of other leaders and departments will be announced soon. Afghan embassies around the world have refused to represent the Taliban for the past month and a half. These embassies are very likely to represent the government-in-exile. If that happens, the international community will have a different opportunity to cooperate with the Saleh-led government.

There is a global outcry against the Taliban’s atrocities against the Afghan people, especially women and minorities. In such a situation, this government-in-exile can get major sympathy and support. This will be a massive blow to the Taliban and Pakistan, which supports the Taliban.