Taliban Announces Founder’s Son As Minister Of Defense

Son of Taliban founder, Mullah Omar, Mohammad Yaqoob, has been announced as Afghanistan’s minister of defense, according to the group’s spokesperson, Zabihullah Mujahid.

Late Omar founded the Taliban in 1994 and through it, was able to capture the Afghan capital of Kabul in 1996 and was made Head of State as a result. He died in 2013.

The group, which now holds sway after the United States withdrew on August 31, is taking steps to gain the uniform endorsement of the international community.

The US and the United Kingdom have expressed doubts about the legitimacy of the Taliban but Russia wants the government to be quickly recognized by the international community.

Taliban’s chief spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said at a press briefing in Kabul on Tuesday that a cabinet was needed to create a clear path for the country.

“The Islamic Emirate decided to appoint and announce a caretaker cabinet to carry out the necessary government works,” he said.

Aljazeera reported that the new caretaker government will be led by Mohammad Hasan Akhund while Abdul Ghani Baradar and Sirajuddin Haqqani will serve as deputy leader and minister of interior.

In all, the spokesperson said the government will consist of 33 members.

A United Nations delegation visited the country and its Taliban leaders on September 5.

The global body noted the humanitarian concerns in the country but was assured by Taliban authorities that it would not obstruct any assistance to its people or the free movement of humanitarian .