Sardar Akhtar Mengal Criticizes Pakistan’s Political Landscape, Calls for Unity Among Baloch Forces

Khuzdar:Sardar Akhtar Mengal, the leader of the Balochistan National Party (BNP), has strongly criticized the political situation in Balochistan, stating that the issue has gone beyond the stage of dialogue. He expressed his personal opinion that parliamentary politics has become ineffective, but clarified that the party would decide whether to continue with parliamentary politics or not. Mengal stated that the authority of the government has collapsed in Balochistan, and it is clear who now holds power in the region.

He further pointed out that the bitter experiences of the past prevent various Baloch factions from uniting, as personal differences often take precedence over national interests. He described Pakistan’s political structure as largely dominated by Punjab, with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan being treated as colonies. Mengal also criticized the diversion of water from the Indus River to the Cholistan region, which he claimed benefits powerful landowners while leaving Sindh’s agriculture-dependent economy in jeopardy.

Mengal also commented on recent remarks made by former President Asif Ali Zardari during a joint parliamentary session, suggesting that Zardari’s speech was aimed at increasing Sindh’s share in the upcoming budget. He added that parliamentary discussions are being censored, and now, through the PICA Act, even journalists face restrictions.

Discussing the issue of Afghan refugees, Mengal mentioned that while their return to Afghanistan is a good development, it appears to be a strategy by the Pakistani government to blackmail Afghanistan. He also spoke about the deteriorating situation in Balochistan, with elected representatives from the region allegedly preferring personal financial interests over serving the public, citing the example of politicians focusing on recovering investments made during elections rather than addressing the needs of their constituents.

Mengal’s remarks reflect growing frustration among Baloch leaders about the current political dynamics in Pakistan, particularly the perceived marginalization of Balochistan and other smaller provinces in national politics.