Quetta Residents Deprived of Right to Rule, Government Afraid of Local Elections: Qadir Ali Nail
**Quetta:** Qadir Ali Nail, Central Secretary for Information of the Hazara Democratic Party (HDP), has stated that the people of Quetta are once again being deprived of their right to govern. Speaking at a press conference at Quetta Press Club, he said that while the party’s preparations for local government elections are complete, the government is delaying the polls out of fear.
Qadir Ali Nail emphasized that the 2022 Local Government Act involved consultations with political parties and the establishment of union councilors to support urban development. He described local government as a “nursery” where political workers gain training and experience to prepare for future political roles. He highlighted that the party takes pride in allowing women to contest direct elections, increasing political participation and giving women the opportunity to showcase their abilities.
He criticized the government, saying that postponing local elections violates the democratic rights of citizens, creating fear and uncertainty among the populace. He stressed that holding local elections is essential for addressing public issues, providing basic services, and ensuring local development.
HDP has filed a court appeal against the postponement to restore the legitimate right of citizens to participate in governance. Qadir Ali Nail vowed that the party will continue its efforts to ensure public representation and local development, refusing to yield to political pressure or undemocratic actions.
Other central council members, including Batool Sima, Nazir Latif, Mujtaba Zahid, Atifa Sadiq, Dad Changizi, Dr. Sakhi, and district leaders, were also present and stressed the importance of local elections for democratic representation. Qadir Ali Nail concluded by urging the government to respect the rightful demands of the people, hold local elections on time, and uphold citizens’ rights so that Quetta residents can safely elect their representatives and implement local development projects.
