"Akhundzada's relative anonymity has reportedly served as a factor in the Taliban's decision to elevate him. Previously, many had assumed that more well-known figures... would succeed Mullah Mansour," according to the Counter Extremism Project (CEP), a non-profit policy organisation. "Significantly less public and controversial" than other choices, he seemed like the ideal candidate to ensure discretion for the movement and "retain control over its internal factions", the CEP said.