Atta Mohammad Noor, one of the leaders of the Islamic Jamiat of Afghanistan and former governor of Balkh, has said in response to criticism of his military past that he is not ashamed of being described as a “warlord” and that he is proud of it.
Mr. Noor said that after graduating from 12th grade and at the age of 18, he abandoned his normal life and joined the fight against the former Soviet forces.
He added that he began his activities as an ordinary mujahid and later rose to command positions. Noor also defended the role of jihadist commanders in Afghanistan’s developments over the past several decades and said criticism against them stems from political opposition.
The leader of the Islamic Jamiat further said that during the war against the Taliban, he was also among the opponents of the group and played a role in leading resistance forces.
In response to critics who describe him and some former jihadist commanders as “warlords,” Noor stressed that the title is not a source of shame for him.
He also rejected some claims regarding his assets and bank accounts, saying that he does not have a bank account inside Afghanistan and has never had a bank account abroad either.
These remarks come as the role of jihadist commanders in Afghanistan’s wars and subsequent political developments has long been accompanied by differing views and widespread criticism.
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