The female governor in Afghanistan's western Ghor Province says she has received death threats from armed strongmen and fears for her life.
Sima Joyenda told RFE/RL on October 18 that "armed commanders," who she called "bullies," have made the threats.
Her comments came the same day that a demonstration demanding her removal was held in the Ghor regional capital, Firoz Koh.
Among those participating in the rally -- the second such protest in the past week -- are Ghor provincial council members who accuse Joyenda of incompetence.
Joyenda, who was appointed by the Afghan government nearly four months ago, says people oppose her because she is a woman and will not submit to "illegal" demands made by council members and former Ghor leaders.
There are only two female governors in Afghanistan.
Joyenda has called for a government delegation to come to the province and investigate the situation.
Abdul Hamid Nateqi, a Ghor provincial council member who has also protested against Joyenda, has also called on the government to send a commission to resolve the issue.
A rally led by several women in support of Joyenda was also held in Firoz Koh on October 18.