TEHRAN — A senior Iranian diplomat, Seyed Rasoul Mousavi, clarified that the formation of an inclusive government in Afghanistan does not equate to a coalition government. Mousavi, an assistant to the Iranian Foreign Minister, stressed that an inclusive government must represent and serve all segments of society.
“A government is inclusive when it effectively engages and serves all members of society,” Mousavi stated.
This comes in response to comments made by Jafar Mahdavi, a Taliban-backed politician, who argued that the new Iranian government should abandon the call for an inclusive system in Afghanistan, deeming it impractical under current circumstances.
Mousavi countered Mahdavi’s remarks, asserting that Mahdavi lacked accurate information and analysis about what constitutes an inclusive government. “An inclusive government does not mean a coalition or participatory government; it means a government that effectively represents and serves all members of society,” Mousavi reiterated.
Since the Taliban’s takeover of Afghanistan, the country has been governed without a constitution, civil institutions, or participation from other political factions. Despite international criticism, the Taliban has shown little willingness to implement reforms. In response to international demands for an inclusive government, the Taliban has maintained that it is an internal issue.
“The Taliban’s understanding of governance is insufficient. A government should be a common home for all, including all ethnicities,” said Sayer Ahmad Tarakai, a university lecturer.
Afghan citizens have also called on the Taliban to form an inclusive government, questioning the exclusion of women and non-Taliban figures from the current administration.
“This government is not acceptable to us. It only serves the Taliban,” said a Kabul resident. “Women have been excluded from both the government structure and society. We call for an inclusive government that represents all ethnicities and women,” another resident stated.
The international community has consistently criticized the absence of women and non-Taliban figures in the Taliban cabinet. Even countries with close ties to the Taliban, such as Russia, China, and Iran, have highlighted the need for an inclusive government in Afghanistan.
