Bashardost says the Taliban government has consistently sought to portray its system as different from that of the previous republican government, presenting the simple lifestyle of its leaders and officials as one of the defining features of its rule.
However, he argues that apart from differences in the style of governance and the clothing worn by officials, there has been no fundamental change between the two systems in terms of official protocol, security guards, government vehicles, and state privileges.
He adds that in some cases, Taliban officials have become even more involved in protocol and displays of luxury than officials of the previous government.
In recent years, the Taliban government has taken various measures concerning government vehicles and security arrangements. Nevertheless, criticism of the privileges and official protocol afforded to government officials continues.
Writer:Saeed Sameer
