Book Review “Successful Mission”

Rahmat Diwan’s “Successful Mission” offers an engaging and thorough exploration of Abdul Jabbar Naeemi’s influential tenure as provincial governor across four Afghan provinces from 2005 to 2018. This detailed account not only highlights Naeemi’s significant achievements and challenges but also provides a comprehensive look at his role in shaping Afghan political and infrastructural landscapes during a pivotal period.

The book opens with a focus on Naeemi’s notable role in the Constitution Loya Jirga and his crucial involvement in Hamid Karzai’s presidential campaign. Diwan vividly describes Naeemi’s strategic visit to Pakistan to support Karzai’s electoral campaign, a pivotal moment that played a role in Karzai’s eventual victory and presidency. The narrative also covers the subsequent controversial aspects of vote manipulation associated with this campaign, offering a nuanced view of the political maneuvering of the time.

In Maidan Wardak, Diwan highlights Naeemi’s efforts to address regional challenges and improve infrastructure. The construction of new provincial authority buildings, major projects like the Chak dam, and Naeemi’s focus on resisting unnecessary foreign engagement are detailed extensively. The book also covers Naeemi’s regional visits, including trips to various districts and interactions with local and international figures, which underscore his commitment to developing Maidan Wardak as a viable alternative to Kabul.

The Khost chapter details Naeemi’s achievements in public awareness, intellectual development, and infrastructure. Notable initiatives include bridge construction, flood rescue operations, and efforts to promote Khost to a second-grade province. Diwan highlights Naeemi’s diplomatic efforts, such as his visits to the UAE and interactions with national and international dignitaries, as well as his focus on community engagement through events like Eid festivals and cricket matches.

In Laghman, the book covers Naeemi’s emphasis on critical projects such as dam construction, historical site renovation, and educational system improvements. Diwan also examines the challenges Naeemi faced, including dealing with opposition and implementing measures to ensure regional stability.

The Kunduz section illustrates Naeemi’s approach to addressing significant challenges and improving infrastructure. The book details his work on projects like the Alchin bridge and circular road, providing a comprehensive look at his contributions to Kunduz’s development.

Additionally, Diwan sheds light on Naeemi’s relentless efforts in combating terrorism and suicide bomb attacks during his tenure. Naeemi’s proactive strategies and risk management in the face of these severe threats played a crucial role in maintaining a semblance of security and stability across the provinces. His work often involved collaborating with national and international security forces to thwart potential attacks and minimize their impact on the local populations.

Overall, “Successful Mission” is a well-researched and compelling account of Abdul Jabbar Naeemi’s governance and contributions. Rahmat Diwan’s detailed portrayal of Naeemi’s diplomatic and administrative efforts, combined with his struggle against terrorism, offers valuable insights into the complexities of provincial governance and development in Afghanistan during a crucial period. This book is an essential read for anyone interested in understanding the intricate dynamics of Afghan political evolution.