CM Balochistan Sarfraz Bugti Pays Tribute to Armed Forces on Independence Day, Vows to Defeat Terrorism

Quetta:Chief Minister of Balochistan, Mir Sarfraz Bugti, has said that Pakistan’s Independence Day is a reminder of the great sacrifices made by our forefathers, and this year’s celebration holds exceptional significance due to the recent victory against an enemy far superior in numbers but deeply immersed in arrogance.

Speaking at the flag hoisting ceremony held at the Balochistan Assembly lawn on the occasion of Pakistan’s 78th Independence Day, the Chief Minister lauded the bravery and determination of the armed forces in defending the country. “Our valiant forces made the enemy bite the dust, and that remains a matter of great pride for the entire nation,” he said.

He extended heartfelt thanks to the Pakistan Armed Forces, especially Field Marshal and Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir, President Asif Ali Zardari, and Prime Minister Mian Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif for demonstrating leadership, vision, and unity in testing times.

Mir Sarfraz Bugti emphasized that the people of Balochistan—from Gwadar to Zhob—celebrated Independence Day with national zeal, which is proof of a living, thriving nation that respects its traditions and history.

Referring to the menace of terrorism, the Chief Minister strongly condemned a small group of militants trying to harm national integrity and tarnish Baloch traditions. “Targeting innocent women, children, and passengers is against our societal and tribal values,” he remarked, highlighting the brutality of recent attacks. “Killing a husband and young son in front of a woman and then claiming to have ‘spared’ her is not mercy—it is sheer barbarity.”

He called on the Parliament to take the lead in the fight against terrorism and urged religious scholars and leaders from all schools of thought to play their role in uniting the nation.

The Chief Minister expressed confidence that peace will soon prevail across Balochistan, owing to the sacrifices of Pakistan’s brave security forces, police, and law enforcement agencies. “We have seen tough times before and have always returned to peace—we will do it again,” he asserted.

At the conclusion of the ceremony, the Chief Minister congratulated Speaker Abdul Khaliq Achakzai and the organizing team for a successful event. He also announced a cash prize of PKR 500,000 for schoolchildren who performed at the event. Mir Sarfraz Bugti interacted warmly with the children, took memorable photographs, and extended Independence Day greetings to lawmakers, religious leaders, and members of civil society in attendance.