Change of guard

It showcased how vulnerable is politics in the desolate province, where instability has for long been a cornerstone

Jam Kamal Khan Alyani stepped down as Chief Minister of Balochistan in a graceful attempt to avoid a no-confidence motion against him. He is the fourth chief executive of the under-developed province to resign. Jam’s resignation pulled the curtain down on upheavals spread over more than two months, wherein the ruling BAP MPAs had revolted against him. About 40 legislators in a house of 65 were bent upon showing him the door, and no amount of persuasion worked. With no concrete political reasons in sight, it seems this change of guard was scripted elsewhere to ignite instability and chaos.

This is for the first time apparently that an in-house change was sought by the treasury members. BAP with 15 MPAs along with Independent and PTI support had ruled the roost for three years. Jam was widely considered as an asset by the federal government, and was instrumental in kick-starting several developmental projects, too. BAP’s role in the Senate was of utmost importance, especially in clinching the top constitutional offices for the ruling PTI dispensation. While the province is in need of a prolonged era of prosperity and stability, the onus is on the legislators to quickly resolve the impasse, and get the business of the state back to normalcy.

The change of heart on the part of MPs has left behind many questions unanswered. It once again showcased how vulnerable is politics in the desolate province, where instability has for long been a cornerstone. With no political force in command to stake claim for forming a government, the exigency of coalitions take a toll. Same happened this time around as MPAs made clear their inclinations by dumping Jam Kamal. The cajoling of divergent political forces, meddling of high-profile men from Senate and federation, as well as usage of Balochistan government’s aircraft to fly legislators is irksome. This brings to fore the immature culture of governance, which inevitably results in weaker national institutions. Balochistan unfortunately had been a hotbed of experiments, and this must come to an end by setting aside brinkmanship.

Published in The Express Tribune, October 26^th, 2021.

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