Jum'a Khan Fateh Releases Audio Message Denying Wrongdoing

Jum'a Khan Fateh has released an audio message stating that he has committed no error that would warrant suppression by the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan. He rejected reports about the disarming of forces under his command.

Fateh explained his resignation as deputy governor of Zabul as resulting from family loneliness, responsibility for managing a school, and regional problems. He expressed support for the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan and instructed his affiliated forces to remain at their official posts.

The dispute centers on an order to halt illegal mining in northeastern Afghanistan targeting his economic resources. Reports exist of military convoys moving toward the Darwaz region in Badakhshan. Fateh denied reports of forces being sent to suppress him or failed negotiations with the leadership.