Lashkari Raisani Slams “Modern Colonial System” in Balochistan, Urges United Political Struggle for Provincial Rights

Quetta:Senior politician and former senator Nawabzada Haji Mir Lashkari Khan Raisani has strongly criticized the prevailing political structure in Balochistan, calling it a continuation of the “One Unit” colonial system under a modern guise. In a powerful video message, Raisani appealed to political workers and youth to unite in a national struggle to reclaim Balochistan’s political and economic rights.

He stated that the control over Balochistan’s coasts, resources, and mineral wealth—along with unconstitutional legislations such as the DHA and Mines and Minerals Act—have only deepened the subjugation of the people. “The February 8, 2024 elections were nothing more than a selection process,” he said. “The current assemblies and Senate have no connection with Balochistan’s real issues. The so-called representatives sitting there are mere instruments of a modern colonial setup.”

Raisani asserted that under the pretext of CPEC and other national projects, Balochistan’s coastline and resources like Saindak and Reko Diq are being exploited. “People of this resource-rich land are being forced to rely on charity kitchens like Edhi and Saylani,” he lamented.

He also criticized the Prime Minister’s recent visit to Quetta, describing the “Jirga” held there as staged and meaningless. “If the PM is sincere about resolving Balochistan’s issues, he should end the practice of orchestrating fake elections, inventing artificial political parties, and holding theatrical jirgas, and instead return resource control to the people.”

Raisani warned that laws such as the **Mines and Minerals Act 2025**, recently passed by the provincial assembly, are effectively auctioning off Balochistan’s natural resources. “If peaceful resistance is not mounted, future generations will no longer be owners of their own land but mere job-seekers.”

He emphasized that although the formal **One Unit** structure was abolished through the struggles of elders and political workers, the centralization of power in Islamabad under a new colonial framework continues. “Balochistan’s legislative and financial autonomy remains an illusion.”

Calling on political parties, he urged them to reject and repeal exploitative laws such as the DHA and Mines and Minerals Act. He announced that he would soon send an open letter to all parliamentary and political parties, urging collective action.

Raisani concluded with an appeal to the youth and political activists of Balochistan: “Unite on all national rights and issues, and join our movement to liberate the province from this modern colonial political system through national political resistance.”