In brief
Abdul Qahar Ghorbandi, leading the charge for tax collection in a sanctions-hit Afghanistan, juggles his past and present roles in a struggling economy.
Abdul Qahar Ghorbandi has taken on the challenging role of heading Afghanistan's Taxpayers Services Directorate, tasked with the difficult job of generating revenue in an economically crippled nation. With his black turban and a friendly demeanor, Ghorbandi engages directly with Afghan taxpayers, guiding them through the nuances of tax documentation.Each day at the opulent tax building, Ghorbandi oversees a stream of citizens—teachers, vendors, and truckers—many of whom face the stark realities of life under a Taliban regime. The Taliban's push to increase tax revenue comes as a response to a severe economic downturn following their return to power in 2021, compounded by international sanctions and a drastic reduction in U.S. aid.Ghorbandi's office is juxtaposed against the symbolism of the Taliban flag, serving as a constant reminder of the regime's controversial governance. The initiative to bolster tax collection is not only essential for the Taliban's survival but is also a response to external pressures, particularly the restrictions imposed due to their treatment of women and girls in the country.Amid this complex landscape, Ghorbandi balances his previous life as a covert Taliban operative with his present duties, navigating the intricacies of both roles as he strives to stabilize Afghanistan’s economy.
