130,000 soldiers recruited: IEA

KABUL (Tolo News): More than 130,000 troops have been recruited, the Ministry of Defense (MoD) said, adding that it is aiming toward 150,000. “More than 130,000 people have been registered and this process will continue. With the completion of registration, the Afghans will see an independent, well-formed and committed military who will provide security and defend the Afghan soil and borders,” said Inayatullah Khwarazami, a spokesman for the MoD.
However, the uniform for the new troops has yet to be determined. Khwarazami said all former female employees of the MoD are still being paid and some of them are still working within the ministry.
“The women who were working in the Ministry of Defense are still working, for example, they are in the health department and other departments. The leadership of the Islamic Emirate and Defense Ministry will make a decision about them. They are still receiving their salaries,” Khwarazai said.
Veterans suggested that professional and experienced individuals should be included in the military. “The important things are the education and professional training, capability, equipment and budget,” said Asadullah Nadeem, a military veteran. “A neutral, real, professional and independent army should be formed,” said Samar Sadat, a military veteran.
The number of Afghan National Defense and Security Forces of the former government has reached more than 350,000. After the former ANDSF collapsed, many soldiers of the foreign government are currently struggling with severe economic conditions.