Chief Minister Marri condemns ‘cowardly attack’

Orders interior secretary, IG, LEAs to ramp up security arrangements

QUETTA: Caretaker Balochistan Chief Minister Alauddin Marri on Friday condemned the “cowardly” attack on the convoy of Balochistan Awami Party (BAP) leader Siraj Raisani which claimed the lives of 128 people and injured nearly 130.

The chief minister expressed grief over the loss of precious lives.
At least 128 people, including Siraj Raisani, were martyred and nearly 130 others injured in the suicide attack in the Dringrah area of Mastung district on Friday in the third such attack on election candidates in the run-up to the nationwide polls.



Siraj was attacked during a corner meeting organised for the promotion of his candidature for the PB-35 constituency.

The chief minister has ordered the interior secretary, inspector general of police and law enforcement agencies to ramp up security arrangements in the province.

“The attack is part of a conspiracy to disrupt the electoral process and peaceful atmosphere,” Marri said.

He ordered the arrest of all the elements involved in the cowardly terrorist attack.



The chief minister also directed the Mastung deputy commissioner and other officers to ensure the injured receive proper treatment at hospitals.

On Thursday, the chief minister met a delegation of the Balochistan Lecturers and Professors Association at the CM House.
Marri told the delegation, “Teachers have a major role in establishing an educated society and they should be treated with respect as they are responsible for educating our future generation.”

He said, “We are optimistic that our teachers will show more sincerity towards their responsibilities as they have a major role in building our society and educating our children.”



The delegation shared grievances and demands, including higher education allowance, with the interim CM.

“The provincial government is keen to address the teachers’ issues but since we joined the government the province has been struck by the worst kind of financial crisis,” said the CM, adding that issues would be resolved on priority basis.

He directed the education secretary to address the BPLA’s issues and proceed with the summary of higher education allowance.