In a pre-recorded video message, Balkh governor Atta Mohammad Noor called Ramadan (May 27 to June 24) the deadliest month for Afghanistan, saying that the reason behind the bloodshed is the inefficiency of security agencies. 

He said the country would face a crisis if reforms are not brought to government institutions – security agencies in particular.

“Afghanistan will definitely face crisis if reforms are not brought to all sectors and in security and intelligence sectors. Symbolic words should be put aside and stern reforms must be brought,” he stated.

The Balkh governor supported recent protests in Kabul and accused government of being dictatorial in its treatment of the demonstrators. 

“Government is being dictatorial instead of listening to the demands of the protesters because civil acts are for reforms in government, they are for variation of thought,” he said. 

However, the Presidential Palace said investigations are ongoing into the protests which turned violent.

“You witnessed recent changes and appointments in different government organizations. This process continues. You witnessed appointments in the Reforms Civil Service

Commission.  About protests, I want to say that includes investigations are being done by government in this respect,” said Shahussain Murtazawi, President Ashraf Ghani’s spokesman.

Meanwhile, President Ashraf Ghani in a video message on the eve of Eid-al Fitr, called on people to stay united and support the culture of cooperation with government. 

“Ensuring the safety of citizens will take place when feeling responsibility in this regard becomes our culture and everyone takes part in it in any way,” Ghani said.