KABUL: In a recent gathering with authorities from Kabul province, the acting Interior Minister of Afghanistan, Sirajuddin Haqqani, articulated a perspective that places immense value on the enhancement of “spiritual” strength as opposed to just physical prowess when it comes to consolidating the nation.
Haqqani underscored the importance of public support in sustaining the interim government’s authority, emphasizing that it cannot persevere without the backing of the people.
During the meeting, Haqqani made a noteworthy assertion that coercing the diverse and spirited populace of Afghanistan into obedience could not be accomplished through sheer force. “If we really surrender to God, the people will obey the government. If we are bad inside but project goodness outwardly, God will expose our duplicity, and we will not prevail. If we don’t heed God’s will, we will face the consequences,” he stated, emphasizing the significance of internal morality in governance.
Haqqani acknowledged that Afghanistan’s recent history has been marked by a struggle against foreign invasion, characterized as Jihad by the Islamic Emirate’s forces. He stated that the country has now transitioned to a different phase of Jihad, one that centers on maintaining stability and fortifying the Islamic government.
Meanwhile, the governor of Kabul, Mohammad Qassim Khalid, underlined the imperative need to implement the edicts of the Islamic Emirate’s leaders in order to pave the way for a “sharia government.” He stressed that every decree issued by the leaders, including those of Amirul Momineen, should be regarded with reverence and brought into effect.
On another note, Mohammad Arif, the head of the Kabul Department of intelligence, advocated for the respectful treatment of the people and recommended that the Islamic Emirate’s forces exhibit proper conduct. He acknowledged complaints from citizens who felt ignored when addressing their concerns to local authorities, urging his colleagues to pay heed to such matters.
This meeting and the expressed sentiments come in the wake of widespread concerns raised by citizens throughout the country regarding the treatment meted out by the Islamic Emirate’s forces. The focus on spiritual strength, public support, and the implementation of decrees underscores a shift in the narrative of Afghanistan’s governance. It reflects an awareness of the necessity to build a government that is not only strong in its physical manifestations but also deeply rooted in the spiritual and moral fabric of its people. The path to a stable and united Afghanistan seems to require not only adherence to tradition but a reevaluation of values and behaviour in a rapidly changing world.
