The Fall of the Taliban Regime Is Not Imminent: Business Confidence as a Key Indicator
Ahmad Fawad Arsala
The persistent rumors about the imminent collapse of the Taliban regime in Afghanistan largely stem from opposition figures who are remnants of warlord factions and corrupt technocrats that squandered American taxpayer funds for two decades. These individuals, many of whom enriched themselves while Afghanistan remained in turmoil, now attempt to generate enthusiasm for regime change based on wishful thinking rather than concrete facts. However, the recent move by Afghan businessman Mirwais Azizi to invest $500 million in a medical city and launch a $10 billion energy initiative provides a compelling counterargument. This investment, coming from a businessman with extensive global connections and financial acumen, is a significant indicator that the Taliban regime is more stable than its detractors claim. After all, investors do not commit vast sums to projects in countries on the verge of collapse.
Azizi’s decision to establish the Farashta Azizi Medical City—a 350-acre facility offering free healthcare and education—demonstrates a level of confidence in Afghanistan’s long-term stability. The fact that this project will be entirely non-profit and cater to underprivileged Afghans further highlights that this is not merely a short-term economic venture but a philanthropic commitment that relies on a functioning government and sustained governance. If Afghanistan were on the brink of another chaotic collapse, it would be highly unlikely that such a sophisticated, long-term initiative would even be considered, let alone publicly announced and implemented.
Furthermore, Azizi’s $10 billion investment initiative, primarily focused on energy production, is another strong indicator of Afghanistan’s stability. The first project under this plan—a 200-megawatt solar power plant in Kabul—will begin construction imminently, with completion expected in just eight months. Such a rapid deployment of infrastructure would be infeasible if the Taliban government were in imminent danger of collapse. Investors and industrialists, especially those with international networks and experience in large-scale projects, conduct extensive risk assessments before committing funds. Azizi’s initiative is a clear sign that informed stakeholders see Afghanistan as a viable environment for business growth, not an impending disaster zone.
The presence of Abdul Ghani Baradar, the Taliban’s deputy prime minister for economic affairs, at the investment announcement ceremony further demonstrates the regime’s commitment to fostering economic development. Unlike the previous regime, which relied heavily on foreign aid and was plagued by corruption, the Taliban’s focus on self-sufficiency and business engagement suggests a pragmatic approach to governance. Encouraging private sector investment and infrastructure development indicates that the Taliban leadership is not only consolidating power but also working towards long-term economic stability.
In contrast, those who predict the Taliban’s imminent downfall rely on outdated narratives and ignore emerging realities on the ground. The opposition, consisting of former warlords and bureaucrats who mismanaged Afghanistan for decades, hopes for a return to the era of foreign dependency, where they thrived at the expense of ordinary Afghans. However, their claims lack substantive evidence. If Afghanistan were truly on the verge of collapse, we would not see substantial private investment in critical infrastructure and essential services.
Ultimately, the best measure of a nation’s stability is the confidence of its investors and industrialists. Mirwais Azizi’s bold commitment to Afghanistan’s future through large-scale medical and energy projects serves as a powerful testament to the fact that the Taliban regime is far from collapsing. Those who continue to propagate the notion of an imminent fall are driven by political motives and nostalgia for a bygone era of mismanagement. The reality, however, points to a regime that is establishing itself as a governing force, attracting investment, and focusing on long-term development.
Support Dawat Media Center
If there were ever a time to join us, it is now. Every contribution, however big or small, powers our journalism and sustains our future. Support the Dawat Media Center from as little as $/€10 – it only takes a minute. If you can, please consider supporting us with a regular amount each month. Thank you
DNB Bank AC # 0530 2294668
Account for international payments: NO15 0530 2294 668
Vipps: #557320
Support Dawat Media Center
If there were ever a time to join us, it is now. Every contribution, however big or small, powers our journalism and sustains our future. Support the Dawat Media Center from as little as $/€10 – it only takes a minute. If you can, please consider supporting us with a regular amount each month. Thank you
DNB Bank AC # 0530 2294668
Account for international payments: NO15 0530 2294 668
Vipps: #557320
Comments are closed.