Clerics Hold More Authority Than Officials, Says Taliban Governor

The Taliban governor of Balkh province has stated that clerics are not only the special representatives of Taliban leader, but also hold responsibilities surpassing those of state officials.

During a regional coordination meeting with religious council representatives from nine northern provinces, Governor Yousuf Wafa underscored the central role of religious scholars in the Taliban’s Islamic governance structure. The meeting, held at the Balkh Ulema Council, aimed to enhance cooperation among religious leaders across the northern region, according to a statement from the governor’s press office.

Wafa emphasised that clerics are vital to the continuation of Taliban rule and the enforcement of decrees issued by its leader. “The Islamic system we have today was achieved through great sacrifice, and its preservation lies in the hands of the clerics,” he said.

He described the nation’s Islamic scholars as the “heirs of the prophets” and maintained that all key Taliban figures including the group’s founders and leaders, Mullah Mohammad Omar, Mullah Akhtar Mansour, and current leader Hibatullah Akhundzada have remained firmly committed to Islamic and Sharia principles.

The governor further stated that clerics bear responsibility not only for spiritual guidance but also for advising civilians, district officials, and security personnel. He urged the religious community to counter ideological rifts, mediate internal conflicts, and foster national unity.

Wafa concluded by affirming that the Taliban leadership continues to value the counsel of Islamic scholars and actively seeks their input in matters of governance and administration.