MAZAR-I-SHARIF (SW) – Situation remained tense in Mazar-e-Sharif on Thursday with everyday life at standstill following the appointment of a new police chief.
Following the directives about the appointment of the new police chief, Abdul Raqib Mubariz, the former Balkh governor, Atta Mohammad Noor, directed government employees and traders via a social media post to stay home in protest.
Mubariz has been appointed to replace Mohammad Akram Sameh, a member of Noor's Jamiat-e-Islami party. The security forces were seen on alert across the city.
Following the controversy surrounding the resignation of former governor, a well-placed source told Salam Watandar the Arg (presidency) promised the reigns of National Disasters Management Authority, Ministry of Education, governorship of Balkh and provincial police headquarters to Atta Mohammad Noor.
Noor has asked the resident to stay indoors for their own security and the security of other citizens. He blamed the Arg (presidency) for conspiring against this deal.
All roads leading to the Mawlani Jalaluddin Mohammad Balkhi Airport and the police headquarters are closed.
The 209 – Shaheeb Crops has announced the forces are ready while Nusrat Rahimi, spokesman for the Ministry of Interior, said it would announce reaction soon.
A meeting of certain provincial officials, members of the Wolesi Jirga (lower house) and former Jihadi leaders is underway at the residence of Noor.
Exchange of fire also took place around the police headquarters in Mazar-i-Sharif.
We wished to have the views of the provincial authorities, but to no avail.
ENDS
