
Mullah Hibatullah Akhundzada
Amu: In a new decree issued by Taliban leader Hibatullah Akhundzada, six Taliban officials — including governors, security commanders, and department heads — were moved to new roles across the country, according to Taliban-run media. Since their takeover in August 2021, the Taliban’s governance strategy has largely involved reassigning loyalists from one post to another rather than bringing in external professionals or technocrats. Click here to read more (external link).

Khaama: The World Health Organization (WHO) marked World Malaria Day on April 25, acknowledging Afghanistan’s significant efforts to reduce the disease. However, it warned that these gains are under threat. In its message, the WHO emphasized its commitment to combating malaria in Afghanistan through an equitable approach. It aims to provide healthcare services to vulnerable groups, particularly migrants, pregnant women, and children. 

Afghanistan International: The Australian Greens Party has announced support for calls from the Hazara community and human rights groups to formally recognise the ongoing persecution against the Hazara people in Afghanistan as genocide. Since the Taliban’s return to power, the rights of Hazaras have been increasingly curtailed, according to the Greens. In a statement released on Wednesday, 23 April, the party expressed pride in supporting the Hazara diaspora in Australia and urged the federal government to provide adequate protection for Hazara refugees. They emphasised that no Hazara refugee should face deportation back to Afghanistan under current conditions. 

Khaama: Over 200 Afghan refugees in Iowa have been ordered by U.S. authorities to leave the country immediately, facing legal action. American media reports indicate that in April, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security sent emails to over 200 Afghan refugees residing in Iowa, instructing them to leave the country immediately. According to Axios, the emails, sent by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, begin with the statement, “It is time to leave the United States.” The messages warned that failure to leave voluntarily would result in detention, revocation of work permits, and potential legal action. One of the emails accessed by Axios concludes with the message, “Do not attempt to remain in the United States, the federal government will find you.”