Only good governance can resolve issues: CM

Says right now province generates Rs15b annually, but needs Rs60b for development

QUETTA: Balochistan Chief Minister Jam Kamal Khan has said if the provincial government does not adopt a positive way to govern, the people of Balochistan will continue demanding basic facilities for the next 70 years.

“A province that has an annual income of Rs15 billion, needs Rs60 billion for provincial development. There is a need for good governance and planning for economic stability in the province,” said Kamal while addressing a workshop conducted under Balochistan Good Governance and Policy Project on Monday.

He said, “Unfortunately in the last 30 years, the previous governments did not introduce public-friendly legislations. Running governments isn’t a piece of cake as without effective policies people will continue demanding facilities for the next 70 years.”

Provincial ministers and advisers – Engineer Zamrak Khan Achakzai, Malik Naeem Bazai, Haji Muhammad Khan Tor Utmankhail and Qadir Nail – former secretary finance Mehfooz Ali Khan and finance department officers were present in the workshop.

On the future’s financial woes of Balochistan, Kamal said, “The provincial pension bill in coming years will exceed Rs200 billion so the government has to increase provincial resources.

“There is fear that the Centre will cut further funds of Balochistan. Therefore, we need to be able to rely upon our own resources. That is why the government is taking steps to increase provincial revenue. Through proper planning and policies, we can generate Rs50 billion from own resources.”

Lamenting the flawed policies, the CM said, “Today, Balochistan inspector general police (IGP) has no powers to use Rs25,000 from the official expenditure while an assistant commissioner cannot even purchase a single pen.

“The incumbent provincial government is taking serious steps for provision of basic facilities to the masses at their doorstep. New legislations are under way to implement good governance.”