On Saturday, 20 Saratan (July 11), the Taliban-affiliated Harat Media reported that Juma Khan Fateh returned from Faizabad city to Darwaz district of Badakhshan Province after what it described as “making a commitment and declaring allegiance” to the Taliban system. According to the report, the local Taliban commander had been taken to Faizabad with the assurance of Taliban Army Chief Fasihuddin Fitrat that discussions would be held with officials of the group.
No details have so far been released regarding the talks or any possible agreements reached between the two sides. However, citing Mohammad Ismail Ghaznavi, the Taliban-appointed governor of Badakhshan, Harat Radio described Juma Khan Fateh as a “committed and loyal” individual to the Taliban system and stated that he would continue to remain aligned with the group.
In a video published by Harat Radio, Juma Khan Fateh is seen boarding a helicopter while leaving Faizabad and bidding farewell to a number of armed Taliban members. This comes despite the same media outlet having dismissed reports the previous day about his transfer to the provincial capital of Badakhshan as “rumors and baseless claims.”
Juma Khan Fateh had traveled to Faizabad in recent days under the guarantee of Fasihuddin Fitrat, the Taliban’s Chief of Army Staff, to hold discussions regarding his disagreements with the group’s leadership. Informed sources say the main points of contention included the appointment of local officials, the disarmament of forces loyal to him, and the management of gold mining activities in Badakhshan.
According to the sources, the Taliban’s efforts to prevent illegal gold extraction have affected Juma Khan Fateh’s economic interests. The group is also attempting to disarm armed individuals affiliated with him who do not hold official positions within the Taliban’s formal structure.
Taliban Supreme Leader Hibatullah Akhundzada had previously removed Juma Khan Fateh from his position as deputy governor of Zabul. Reports indicate that he was expected to be appointed to a government position outside Badakhshan, but he rejected those offers.
Based on available information, Juma Khan Fateh has refused to accept any responsibility outside Badakhshan Province. Sources further state that one of the positions proposed for him was heading one of the Taliban’s intelligence departments in Kabul; however, he also declined that offer.
Writer:Salima Aryaei
