Taliban Interior Minister Could Join Vienna Process, Says Hazara Leader

Mohammad Mohaqiq, leader of the People’s Islamic Unity Party of Afghanistan, has stated that internal divisions within the Taliban could lead figures such as Sirajuddin Haqqani and Mullah Baradar to join the Vienna Process.

Speaking in an interview with Afghanistan International on Tuesday, Mohaqiq, a participant in the Vienna Process, stressed that if opposition figures within the Taliban are willing to engage in peace talks, their participation would be welcomed.

He asserted that the international community has now reached the consensus that the Taliban regime is not sustainable, making discussions about a post-Taliban Afghanistan crucial. He highlighted that Afghanistan’s future must be decided through a democratic process, ensuring representation from all political and ethnic groups.

Referring to internal rifts within the Taliban and the suspension of international aid, Mohaqiq emphasised that Afghanistan’s political landscape is shifting. He noted that no regional country currently supports the Taliban, and global and regional powers have distanced themselves from the group.

“Regional countries are either openly opposed to the Taliban or increasingly concerned about their actions,” he remarked.

Mohaqiq also pointed to the deteriorating relations between the Taliban and Pakistan, stating that Pakistan’s security situation has worsened significantly since the Taliban’s rise to power. He argued that the lack of formal recognition of the Taliban government by any country reflects regional dissatisfaction with the group’s policies.

He further stated that the Vienna Process seeks to expand its reach and include a broader spectrum of political voices to develop a roadmap acceptable to all Afghan factions.

Mohaqiq participated virtually in the Vienna Conference, which took place on Tuesday and brought together 90 political figures and representatives. During the meeting, anti-Taliban leaders reaffirmed their commitment to armed resistance and declared that they are not waiting for the United States or any foreign power to initiate change in Afghanistan.