Corruption Worse Than Terrorism, 3,200 Closed Schools Reopened in Balochistan: CM Sarfraz Bugti

**Quetta:** Chief Minister of Balochistan, Mir Sarfraz Bugti, has declared corruption a “bigger cancer than terrorism,” announcing sweeping reforms aimed at transforming the province through merit, transparency, and improved governance.

In a special interview with a private television channel, the chief minister stated that lasting peace and merit-based governance are essential for Balochistan’s progress. He asserted that the province’s core issue is not terrorism but entrenched corruption, adding that the long-standing practice of selling government jobs has been permanently abolished.

Bugti revealed that a special anti-subversion cell has been established within the Home Department to identify government employees, doctors, and professors who allegedly draw state salaries while promoting anti-state agendas. He warned that strict action would be taken against such individuals.

Addressing the sensitive issue of missing persons, the chief minister said the matter has often been used for propaganda purposes. However, he noted that a formal four-month investigation mechanism has now been instituted under the supervision of High Court judges to ensure a lawful and permanent resolution.

Highlighting achievements in the education sector, Bugti announced that 3,200 previously closed schools have been reopened following the merit-based recruitment of 12,000 teachers. He expressed confidence that within the next few months, no school in the province would remain closed.

In the health sector, he said 164 Basic Health Units (BHUs) have been reactivated to provide modern medical facilities in remote areas.

Calling the Reko Diq project a game changer for the province, Bugti stated that Balochistan holds a 25 percent share in the initiative. He further revealed that development projects worth Rs66 billion are currently underway in Gwadar.

The chief minister also thanked the leadership of Punjab, saying it demonstrated brotherhood by foregoing its share in favor of Balochistan. He clarified that the killing of laborers from Punjab is the work of terrorists, not the Baloch people, and vowed that anti-state elements would be defeated at all costs.