Governor Balochistan Highlights Importance of Grand Jirga for Peace, Stability, and Public Engagement
Quetta: Governor of Balochistan Jafar Khan Mandokhail has expressed optimism that the Grand Jirga held in Dalbandin (Rakhshan Division) will yield positive outcomes for the province’s journey towards lasting peace, economic stability, and merit-based governance.
Addressing the participants of the Jirga, which included Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti, Commander 12 Corps Lt. Gen. Rahat Naseem Ahmed Khan, provincial ministers, senior civil and military officials, tribal elders, women, students, and citizens from various walks of life, the governor emphasized that Jirga is a time-honored national tradition designed to confront both internal and external challenges through consultation and consensus.
Governor Mandokhail said that holding such Jirgas at the divisional level ensures direct engagement with local realities and gives a voice to the silent majority. He praised former Chief Minister Mir Abdul Quddus Bizenjo for securing 25% profit share for Balochistan in the Reko Diq project, calling it a significant achievement that will bring prosperity to the entire region.
The event began with a wreath-laying ceremony and Fatiha at the Martyrs’ Memorial, symbolizing tribute and unity.
The governor noted that in some districts of Balochistan, unrest and insurgency remain political in nature, and require political solutions. Despite tense and discouraging circumstances, he stressed that the doors of dialogue and consultation must remain open.
Drawing upon his political experience, Mandokhail stated that ignoring public opinion and collective concerns can lead to political and social instability. He pointed to the pressing issues of poverty, inflation, and unemployment, which are especially affecting the youth of Balochistan, and called for serious, immediate policy decisions to address them.
He reiterated that Pashtun and Baloch traditions of Jirga and consultation still hold the power to find lasting, community-driven solutions. He concluded by saying:
