Youth Must Be Empowered for a Peaceful and Prosperous Balochistan: Nawabzada Jamal Raisani

Quetta:Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Member of National Assembly, Nawabzada Jamal Khan Raisani, has emphasized that the youth are the country’s most valuable asset and called on the government and state institutions to improve policies aimed at providing employment and ensuring peace across Pakistan, particularly in Balochistan.

Speaking to senior journalists after attending a ceremony marking the 7th death anniversary of his father, Nawabzada Siraj Khan Raisani, Jamal Raisani stated that peace and development are essential for building a progressive society. He urged the younger generation to utilize their education and skills to choose a positive path, honoring the sacrifices of national leaders.

The event was attended by PPP Labour and Manpower Advisor Baba Ghulam Rasool Imrani, Mir Fareed Raisani, Sardar Imran Bangulzai, and other dignitaries.

Citing recent statistics from the Home Department, Raisani expressed grave concern over the deteriorating security situation in Balochistan, with 45% of the province affected by unrest over the past six months. He said this should be a wake-up call for both federal and provincial governments, as well as for security forces, including the Army, FC, Police, and Levies.

“The frustration among educated youth due to unemployment is leading them toward negative paths,” he said, revealing that he has raised the issue with the Prime Minister. “We cannot ignore the situation in Balochistan any longer. Good governance must be ensured so that youth have access to higher education, employment, and healthcare.”

He added, “Why are our highly educated youth aligning with enemy narratives? It’s because of failed policies. We need to restore hope and reinforce the state narrative.”

On another question, he highlighted the need to engage youth aged 18 to 25, who are increasingly turning to militancy due to lack of opportunities. “The state must embrace its youth, understand their grievances, and give them a platform to prosper.”

Raisani also warned against the growing influence of hostile propaganda on social media and stressed the need to counter it through strategic communication and state-backed initiatives.

Speaking on corruption, Raisani termed it the biggest hurdle to progress. “There are three types of corruption in our country — white, grey, and black. We must eliminate black corruption and work towards transparency if we want to deliver real development.”

He lamented that successive governments remain uncertain about completing their constitutional terms, leading to policy discontinuity. “Governments must be allowed to complete their five- or ten-year tenures to plan and execute long-term projects,” he added.

Regarding the security situation in Balochistan, Raisani called for decisive action against terrorists, while making a clear distinction between those seeking legitimate rights and those spreading terror.

“Our people want peace, education, jobs, clean drinking water, and a better communication system. We owe it to our martyrs to continue their mission of peace and progress.”

He concluded with a message for the youth: “Come forward and be part of peace-building. Those who are on the wrong path must return and work for the betterment of their people, province, and country. Our future depends on a peaceful Pakistan and a prosperous Balochistan.”