Abdul Salam Zaeef said that flattering advisers, ignorant friends, and biased companions are the worst enemies of a person. Although he did not mention the name of any Taliban official directly, he hinted that such people lead individuals away from the right path and push them toward destruction.
Today, Monday, 28 Sawr, he warned on X about the harmful effects of bad advisers. Zaeef, who is considered close to the Taliban, has previously criticized the group’s policies several times in indirect and symbolic ways.
Due to severe restrictions on freedom of expression in Afghanistan, many former Taliban officials and politicians express their criticism indirectly and through hints. Abdul Salam Zaeef is also among those who criticize the Taliban through social media without openly naming officials.
He currently holds no official position in the Taliban government, but he played an active role during the peace talks and still maintains close ties with Taliban leaders. Some analysts believe Zaeef’s recent remarks may have been aimed at the circle around Hibatullah Akhundzada, especially since one of his advisers was recently arrested on bribery charges and later released on the guarantee of the Kandahar Ulema Council.
The Taliban in Kabul have increased restrictions to silence opponents, media outlets, and even critics within their own ranks, imposing harsh limitations on freedom of expression.
Writer:Saeed Sameer
