KABUL: A major power shift may be taking shape in northern Afghanistan following the reported appointment of Mullah Abdul Qayyum Zakir as Special Operations Commander.
The move is being viewed by some observers as extending beyond a routine security reshuffle. It could potentially strengthen Kandahar’s influence over strategically important northern provinces, local power structures and areas believed to contain valuable natural resources.
The development comes amid broader efforts to consolidate authority within Afghanistan’s governing structure. Greater involvement of figures closely associated with Kandahar in northern security affairs could also affect the balance of power among local authorities and influential networks.
The reported appointment therefore carries wider political and strategic significance, particularly for northern Afghanistan and the country’s resource-rich regions.
