Is Abdul Ghani Baradar A-List?
No — Abdul Ghani Baradar is currently ranked B tier — a well-known figure with a strong career but not quite a household name.
Reached A-list in 2021
Taliban Takeover, Prime Minister
Lost A-list status in 2026
Dropped to B tier — Taliban Leader in Afghanistan
Ranking Timeline
Co-founds the Taliban
Helps establish the Taliban, shaping its initial ideology. Starts rise in influence.
Taliban Regime Collapses
Plays a role in the Taliban government until its fall after the US invasion. Goes underground.
Captured in Pakistan
Arrested in Pakistan, sidelining him from active Taliban command. Temporary setback.
Released for Peace Talks
Released to facilitate peace negotiations with the United States. Re-enters political landscape.
Leads US-Taliban Negotiations
Leads the Taliban's negotiating team, paving the way for US withdrawal. International visibility increases.
Taliban Takeover, Prime Minister
Taliban seizes control of Afghanistan; Baradar becomes First Deputy Prime Minister. Returns to national power.
Taliban Leader in Afghanistan
Continues to serve in the Taliban government as a key political and religious leader. Central figure in Afghan government.
Last updated: February 24, 2026