A Governor's Verdict on Divorce
In northern Afghanistan, Governor Abdullah Sarhadi, a former Taliban commander, listens as an 18-year-old woman, identified as Tuba, demands a divorce from her husband, whom she accuses of months of abuse. Despite her calm and confident plea, Sarhadi tries to persuade her to stay, later remarking to male officials that women are 'mindless' and 'deficient in intellect,' drawing laughter from those present.[S1]
Abdullah Sarhadi counsels Tuba, cautioning her that a divorce could jeopardize her future marriage prospects and reputation. Tuba counters that her dignity is already compromised. According to Sharia law, a woman seeking divorce might need to repay the dowry, but her spouse demands a quadrupled sum, which her family declines. The governor proposes separate accommodations for Tuba and advises against physical abuse, yet Tuba's father insists on pursuing a legal divorce, despite the challenges women face under Taliban governance.[S1]
From Guantanamo to Governor
Sarhadi, who was held in Guantanamo Bay after surrendering in 2001, now governs in Jawzjan province. He complains that a ban on smartphones for officials has slowed communication, but avoids further comment. His worldview appears unchanged from the 1990s, when he was a commander in Bamiyan, where the Taliban destroyed ancient Buddha statues. He admits, 'I destroyed it with my own hands,' and expresses no regret, saying it was God's will.[S1]
A Former Suicide Attack Planner
In Kabul, Habibullah Badr, a senior Taliban figure, says he was once responsible for planning suicide attacks. He knows the city's streets well but is cautious about discussing his past, fearing it might upset people. He claims the Taliban targeted US convoys and urged civilians to stay away from foreign bases, but evades questions about specific attacks in civilian areas. Badr, who was previously deputy head of prisons, now takes time off for medical treatment.[S1]
Sultan Mohammad Talaee, a foundation leader, spoke at a tribal event, praising Badr. However, he also expressed concerns about the lack of access to education for all, especially girls. Talaee's speech was abruptly interrupted when his microphone was taken away. He later revealed to the BBC that he had intended to emphasize the Islamic duty of seeking knowledge for both genders, and that he had more to share but was silenced.[S1]
