The political framework of Afghanistan

Political Outline

Current Political Leaders

Supreme Leader of the Taliban movement: HAYBATULLAH Akhundzada (since 15 August 2021)

Next Election Dates

TBD

Main Political Parties

Before the Taliban takeover, Afghanistan had a multi-party system with numerous political parties participating in the democratic process. Since coming to power in August 2021, the Taliban have established an authoritarian regime and banned all political parties, effectively eliminating political pluralism in the country.

Executive Power

After taking power in August 2021, the Taliban established a regime that severely limited democratic freedom in the country. Most countries (including the G7) do not recognize the Taliban government.
Before the takeover, the president was both chief of state and head of government.

Legislative Power

Before the Taliban takeover in August 2021, Afghanistan had a bicameral legislature known as the National Assembly, composed of two houses: the Wolesi Jirga (House of the People) and the Meshrano Jirga (House of Elders). The Wolesi Jirga was the more powerful chamber, consisting of 249 members elected by the people for five-year terms, with seats reserved for women and minority groups. The Meshrano Jirga had 102 members: one-third elected by district councils for three-year terms, one-third by provincial councils for four-year terms, and one-third appointed by the president for five-year terms, including representatives for women, the disabled, and nomadic groups. The National Assembly ceased functioning following the fall of Kabul on 15 August 2021 and was officially dissolved by the Taliban in May 2022.