Kamal claims decline in security challenges

Lauds efforts of law enforcement agencies against terrorism

QUETTA: Balochistan Chief Minister Jam Kamal claimed security challenges in the province have declined as Law Enforcement Agencies (LEA) have defeated powers spreading terrorism across the province.

Addressing participants of National Security Workshop on Friday in Quetta, the CM lauded efforts of security forces against terrorism and briefed the participants on revamping law and order situation in Balochistan.

“People of the province and security forces have rendered immense sacrifices in war against terrorism defeating foreign forces to use Pakistan’s land for propelling international war,” Kamal said.

Talking about development in the province, the CM criticised policies of previous provincial governments. “Unfortunately earlier rulers focused on development of specific districts in order to maintain their influence. However, they rejected deprived areas of Balochistan,” he said.

Kamal laid emphasis on quality governance in the province.

“The government ensures implementation of good governance through accountability, merit and strict monitoring utilising resources for provision of basic facilities,” said the CM.

Stressing need of update information in current era, Kamal in his address urged the youth to connect with social media therefore no one can escape accountability.

The CM shared details of initiatives taken by the provincial government.

“We have completed more than 600 development schemes initiated by previous government. The government has also established new departments and has allocated Rs300 billion to uplift workforce and strength of Levies Force,” said Kamal.

Talking about importance of China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), the CM censured previous governments’ policies ignoring benefits of the CPEC.

“Unfortunately, we have to face consequences of reckless decisions of previous rulers on CPEC. We have also faced a penalty of $6 billion in Reko Dik case due to the government’s decision,” added the CM.

The CM blamed improper utilisation of resources for deprived state of Balochistan.

“The province has abundance of natural resources but Balochistan generated only Rs10 to 15 billion annual income,” said Kamal.

The CM termed the workshop an unusual productive event for Balochistan providing opportunity of learning to the people of the province.

Southern Command Commander Lieutenant General Waseem Ashraf and General Officers Commanding (GOC) 41 Division attended the workshop.

Kamal also responded to question answer session held at the end of the address.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 4^th, 2020.