Unusual Discontent Reported Among Haqqani Network in Afghanistan

Support has turned to resentment in some corners for the Haqqani Network leaders – Jalaluddin and Sirajuddin who leads the group from their shelter across the border in Pakistan, the New York Times reported.

(KHOST PROVINCE) - A considerable reduction has been noted in overall violence in eastern Khost province of Afghanistan with reports of discontent among the Haqqani Network.

According to reports, violent episodes have fallen by nearly one-half since 2011 in eastern Khost province, the main stronghold of Haqqani Network.

Support has turned to resentment in some corners for the Haqqani Network leaders – Jalaluddin and Sirajuddin who leads the group from their shelter across the border in Pakistan, the New York Times reported.

Leaders from Haqqani’s native Zadran tribe in eastern Khost province of Afghanistan say they have formally broken with the Haqqani Network.

Faisal Rahim, a former Haqqani commander and head of the Zadran Tribal Council told New York Times, “The tribe now understands who Mr. Haqqani works for,” referring to Pakistan’s support for the network.

The former Haqqani commander further added, “His war is not a holy war. It’s a war for dollars, for Pakistani rupees and for power.”

Another member of the Zadran tribe and head of the Tribal council Liaison Office, Mohammad Ali Zadran said, “The Haqqanis are not allowing schools, clinics, roads or civil services, so why would people support him?”

He said, “We are no longer that older generation who followed him blindly.”

Special thanks to Fawad Ahmad Muslim
Afghanistan News Center
www.afghanistannewscenter.com