DHAKA: A former Afghan lawmaker and district governor said on Thursday he had defected to the Taliban as the Islamist hardliners seek to strengthen their influence before United States-led combat troops withdraw next year.

Government officials confirmed that Qazi Abdul Hai had joined the rebels, but dismissed him as a low-level figure whose actions would have little impact.

‘I am sure the Americans will be forced out soon and the Islamic Emirate will rule Afghanistan,’ Hai said, using the formal name of the Taliban, in a video released on the group’s website, reports The Straits Times.

‘I consulted with elders, and they all encouraged me to join.’

BDST: 2010 HRS, SEPT 19, 2013
RoR/RIS