Corruption Greater Challenge Than Terrorism, Says Balochistan CM Sarfraz Bugti

Quetta:Balochistan Chief Minister **Mir Sarfraz Bugti** on Thursday said that corruption is the province’s biggest challenge, and without eliminating this menace, good governance and developmental goals cannot be achieved.

Addressing trainee officers at the **National Institute of Public Administration (NIPA) Quetta**, CM Bugti announced the construction of a hostel and auditorium at the institute, dedicated to the martyrs, terming it a tribute to their sacrifices and a step towards improving officer training facilities.

He urged officers to utilize their abilities in the service of the common man, stressing:

> “True performance is serving the ordinary citizen who shivers in the cold and suffers in the heat. Officers must commit themselves to eradicating corruption and resolving public issues.”

Calling corruption a challenge greater than terrorism, he said its eradication was vital for national stability. He cited **Article 5 of the Constitution**, emphasizing unconditional loyalty to the state and the need for honesty and integrity in all walks of life.

Bugti further said there was a difference between the realities on the ground in Balochistan and the perception presented to the outside world. He rejected the notion that “imbalanced development” alone fuels separatist tendencies, noting that many countries face similar issues.

“Unequal development may support terrorism, but it is not its root cause. Terrorism is a direct, organized war against the state, and we must face it with unity, resolve, and a clear vision,” he remarked.

He also stated that the issue of missing persons was being used as a **propaganda tool by anti-state elements**, stressing that only national cohesion and mutual trust could foil such conspiracies.

> “The state comes first, and the government will strongly confront every conspiracy,” he asserted.

At the end of the ceremony, CM Bugti distributed certificates among graduating officers and planted a commemorative sapling at the institute.