Abdul Qahar Ghorbandi, known as the Taxman of Kabul, serves as a pivotal figure in the Taliban's drive for financial stability in a country crippled by economic hardship. With a thick beard, a black turban, and a notably amicable disposition, Ghorbandi presides over the Taxpayers Services Directorate, where he encounters hundreds of taxpayers daily. His responsibilities include ensuring that individuals from diverse professions—educators, currency dealers, transportation providers, event planners, and grocers—arrive equipped with necessary income documentation.
Following the Taliban's ascendance in 2021, efforts to enhance tax collection have intensified amid severe economic downturns. International sanctions have tightened their grip on the regime, primarily due to oppressive measures against women and girls. With U.S. financial assistance drastically reduced and potential cuts looming under President Trump's budget, the Taliban context indicates the critical role of internal revenue generation.
Ghorbandi's office buzzes with activity as Afghans navigate the tax processes with the help of Taliban officials adeptly utilizing computer tools. As Afghanistan’s economic landscape continues to shift, Abdul Qahar Ghorbandi remains a focal character, blending his past with new responsibilities in the tumultuous environment of Taliban governance.
