A number of MPs and analysts on Saturday raised the issue of key government positions being run by caretakers, including the Ministry of Mines and Petroleum, which according to them is critical in leading the country towards self-reliance.

Critics urged the National Unity Government (NUG) to address the issue and end the caretaking trend.

“At least nine ministries are run by caretakers, according to the Wolesi Jirga’s [Lower House of Parliament] information. And these are among key and important ministries. These are the ministries which can affect the [overall] budget spend process,” MP Fawzia Kofi said.

She added: “An acting minister or an acting deputy minister is not as committed as a minister or a deputy minister.”

“A big part of the problem is because of the political approach in selecting officials for key posts. Personal matters are prioritized compared with merit in selecting figures for senior positions,” said Hadi Miran, a political commentator.

Meanwhile, Ibrahim Jafari, a member of the Natural Resources Monitoring Network said that due to the absence of a minister for the Mines and Petroleum Ministry, many contracts are signed without being thoroughly reviewed.

“No contract [in mining sector] is reviewed and assessed as it should be. The contracts which have been signed have not been reviewed and monitored thoroughly,” Jafari stated.

The Presidential Palace (ARG) would not comment on the issue. However, ARG officials recently said addressing the issue of acting ministers and other positions is their topmost priority.