The two-decade-long US war in Afghanistan brought about significant changes in the country's political landscape. One of the strategies implemented by the Afghan government, known as the \"generational change strategy,\" aimed to replace the aging ruling class with a new wave of leaders.
According to Abdul Satar Saadat, the legal consultant to former Afghan President Ashraf Ghani, this strategy involved appointing a group of young foreigners of Afghan heritage to high-level positions. These individuals, dubbed \"Whiskey Boys\" by some Western embassies, lived luxuriously in the foreign embassy areas of Kabul. Their lavish lifestyles often included playing poker, with funds that were allegedly earned through corrupt practices.
The term \"Whiskey Boys\" highlights the controversial nature of their roles within the Afghan government. Critics argue that their presence and activities contributed to widespread corruption, undermining the efforts to build a stable and transparent governance structure in Afghanistan.
The legacy of the \"Whiskey Boys\" is a testament to the complex interplay between foreign influence and local governance. As Afghanistan continues to navigate its post-war future, the impact of these high-level appointments remains a topic of considerable debate among policymakers and citizens alike.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
