Taliban's Internet Shutdown: A Power Struggle Revealed

Fri Jan 16 2026 11:34:46 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

A deep internal conflict within the Taliban emerges as the supreme leader, Hibatullah Akhundzada, faces a rebellion from his Kabul-based ministers over an abrupt internet shutdown, signaling cracks in the group's unity.

Tensions within the Taliban are escalating as Supreme Leader Hibatullah Akhundzada's abrupt internet shutdown order leads to a power struggle with his Kabul ministers, who defy his directive. This clash reveals significant ideological divides within the Taliban, with one faction pushing for a more modern, engaged Afghanistan while Akhundzada seeks a strict Islamic governance. The ongoing conflict raises questions about the future of women's rights and governance in the country.

A recent audio leak from the BBC reveals deep concerns from Taliban leader Hibatullah Akhundzada, who worries about internal discord that could jeopardize the group's control over Afghanistan. Following an internet shutdown ordered by Akhundzada, which was planned to sever Afghanistan from the international community, ministers aligned with the more progressive 'Kabul group' quickly acted to restore connectivity, defying his direct order.

This situation highlights a growing rift within the Taliban's leadership, where two factions present conflicting visions for the nation. On one side, Akhundzada's loyalists, based in Kandahar, favor a strictly conservative governance model disconnected from the modern world. On the other, the Kabul group advocates for engagement with the international community, economic development, and even women's education—currently limited under Taliban rule.

The internet shutdown has triggered unprecedented defiance among Taliban officials, as key ministers united to reverse the order when they realized that the decision threatened their power and privileges. The spectacle of disobedience raises critical questions about the Taliban's unity and the future welfare of Afghan citizens, especially women who are barred from education beyond primary levels.

This conflict within the Taliban could signal a turning point for Afghanistan's governance. With leaders publicly denying any splits while rumors swirl about their differences, the country stands at a critical juncture. Whether this internal struggle leads to meaningful reforms, particularly in women's rights, remains uncertain as the dynamics within the Taliban evolve.