Secluded in his stronghold in southern Afghanistan, reclusive Taliban Supreme Leader Hibatullah Akhundzada is the cornerstone of the movement that has ruled the country unchallenged since reclaiming power in 2021, strictly enforcing Islamic law.

"Brothers! Our responsibility of service to religion, ruling according to sharia (Islamic law), is our lifelong responsibility," Akhundzada said in an address in August 2024 marking the third anniversary of the Taliban takeover.

Akhundzada has made only a handful of public appearances since inheriting the leadership of the Taliban in May 2016 -- days after his predecessor was killed in a US drone strike in Pakistan.

Believed to be in his 60s or 70s, he publishes messages on Muslim holidays and rules by decree from Kandahar, the movement's birthplace and spiritual heartland, as well as Akhundzada's birthplace.

He made his first official appearance as supreme leader at a religious school in Kandahar in October 2021, according to Taliban authorities, followed by several outings in recent years, mostly muzzling those who believed he was dead or in hiding in Pakistan.

The Taliban have released just one photograph of........

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