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In many remote areas of Afghanistan – where few foreign journalists have access - it’s the Kalashnikov rather than the ballot box that dictates who holds power.

The men with the guns are the powerful local warlords. Local people say that they divert water for private dams so farmers cannot grow their crops. They steal land and they press gang people into military service. In many areas the police are simply too afraid to operate and officials appointed by the national government are powerless.

For Assignment Rustam Qobil reports from the northern province of Takhar on how the local warlords exercise their power.

Assignment producer: Tim Mansel

(Image: A man who works for the warlords in Afghanistan Credit: Rustam Qobil)