THE system imposed by the Taliban in Afghanistan is often presented as Sharia-based governance, yet in reality it reflects a rigid, centralized and coercive order that diverges sharply from the core principles of Islam.

Rather than embodying justice, consultation and welfare, the current structure revolves around absolute authority concentrated in the hands of a single leadership circle, with religion used as a tool to legitimize control and suppress dissent.

A fundamental flaw in the Taliban system lies in its lack of legitimacy. Governance in Islam rests on consultation (shura), consent and accountability. The Taliban, however, assumed power through force, not through public will. There were no elections, no inclusive consultation and no national consensus. Authority was imposed in an environment shaped by fear and coercion, which stands in clear contradiction to the Islamic concept of voluntary allegiance. Public silence in such conditions reflects survival instincts, not acceptance.

Institutionally, Afghanistan under the Taliban reflects a deeply centralized and exclusionary system. Decision-making authority is concentrated within a narrow Kandahar-based leadership, while formal institutions such as the cabinet, judiciary and advisory bodies function largely as instruments of compliance. There is no effective parliament, no independent judiciary and no free media. The absence of transparency and accountability has transformed governance into rule by decree rather than rule of law.

The exclusionary nature of the regime is also evident in its ethnic composition. Despite Afghanistan’s diverse demographic structure, power remains heavily concentrated within a specific group, leaving large segments of the population underrepresented. This concentration contradicts both modern governance norms and Islamic principles of equality and unity within the ummah.

Equally concerning is the systematic suppression of intellectual freedom. Dissent is criminalized, criticism is treated as rebellion and independent thought is discouraged. Scholars, journalists and civil voices operate under constant threat. Islam historically encourages debate, knowledge and reasoning, yet the current system enforces a rigid, one-dimensional interpretation, reducing religion to an instrument of control rather than guidance.

Legal frameworks further reinforce inequality. The implementation of laws that allow arbitrary enforcement and disproportionate punishment reflects a system where justice is neither impartial nor consistent. Instead of protecting citizens, the legal structure is often used to silence opposition and consolidate authority.

The governance deficit is visible in socio-economic indicators. Afghanistan faces worsening poverty, economic stagnation and food insecurity. Rather than addressing these challenges through inclusive policies and international engagement, the regime’s isolationist approach has deepened the crisis. Restrictions on education, particularly the dismantling of modern learning systems, have further pushed society toward regression, undermining long-term stability and development.

In contrast, Pakistan has consistently advocated for a stable, inclusive and peaceful Afghanistan. Pakistan’s position emphasizes dialogue, regional cooperation and governance that reflects the will and welfare of the Afghan people. A peaceful Afghanistan is essential not only for its own citizens but also for regional stability, economic connectivity and counterterrorism efforts.

The reality remains clear: a system built on coercion, exclusion and suppression cannot sustain legitimacy or deliver progress. True Islamic governance is rooted in justice, consultation, inclusivity and accountability. Any model that replaces these principles with fear and domination not only harms its own society but also misrepresents the essence of Islam.

—The writer is contributing columnist, based in Rawalpindi.

© Pakistan Observer