Five years since the Taliban's resurgence, the BBC provides an in-depth look at the group's governance as they restructure Afghanistan. The story unfolds in northern Afghanistan, where Governor Abdullah Sarhadi, a former Taliban commander, grapples with an 18-year-old woman seeking divorce from her abusive husband. In a country where women's rights are severely restricted, the young woman presents her case calmly and resiliently, challenging traditional norms hidden behind her full-face veil and sunglasses. The governor's derogatory remarks about women spark unease and controversy among those he governs. The Taliban's policies on education, workplaces, and personal freedoms mirror their hard-line interpretation of Sharia law from the 1990s, raising questions about their claimed evolution. The BBC gains access to influential Taliban figures, including military commanders and officials, offering a rare glimpse into the minds of those who once planned suicide attacks but now hold positions of power. Despite attempts to present a reasonable image, past violence remains a sensitive topic for these men. The story also reveals tension between the rulers and the ruled, as families seek justice through legal channels when traditional methods fail. Governor Sarhadi, a former military commander during the Taliban's first stint in power, discusses the challenges of modern governance, including a recent ban on smartphones for officials. His unwavering commitment to religious fundamentalism is evident in his justification for destroying ancient Buddha statues in Bamiyan during the 1990s, stating it was in accordance with God's law. Another Taliban figure, Habibullah Badr, discusses his past role as a coordinator of suicide attacks, expressing caution about reopening old wounds and potential backlash from discussing his violent past. The article provides a forward-looking analysis of the Taliban's rule, highlighting the challenges they face in balancing tradition with modernity while maintaining control over a nation still recovering from decades of conflict.