Balochistan cabinet formation ‘imminent’

QUETTA:

The Balochistan cabinet formation is poised for completion within the next 48 hours, according to Shahid Rind, the spokesperson for the Balochistan government. Despite Mir Sarfaraz Bugti assuming the role of Chief Minister of Balochistan more than a month ago, the formation of the provincial cabinet has yet to be finalized.

Rind stated that differences have been ironed out, and the process is nearing completion. He emphasized the significance of the next 24 to 48 hours in this regard. The delay in forming the cabinet stands in contrast to other provinces, where cabinets have already been established.

Notably, Rind highlighted a milestone in the recent senate elections, where concerted efforts prevented horse trading. Members from both the treasury and opposition benches cooperated to ensure unopposed elections, a move applauded by the public.

He said that even an arch-rival of the government such as the former chief minister, Dr. Abdul Malik Baloch, also voted for the former Chief Minister of Balochistan, Mir Quddus Bizenjo, in this regard.

Sources within the Pakistan Muslim League (N), a key ally of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) in Balochistan, said the party has demanded a 60 per cent share in the distribution of portfolios. This is also cited as one of the underlying reasons behind the delay in the formation of the cabinet.

Nevertheless, Rind dismissed reports of a deadlock within the coalition partners, asserting progress and imminent cabinet formation.

The delay in forming the Balochistan cabinet has sparked concerns, particularly as governance decisions await the formation of the executive body.

Despite the assurance from Rind regarding the impending cabinet formation, the delay underscores the complexities of coalition politics and power-sharing dynamics in the province.

As Balochistan moves closer to finalizing its cabinet, the focus remains on ensuring effective governance and addressing the myriad challenges facing the province. The formation of the cabinet will not only shape the course of governance but also set the tone for cooperation and collaboration among political stakeholders in Balochistan.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday reiterated that the development and prosperity of Balochistan were among the top priorities of the government.

The prime minister underscored the imperative of maximizing the utilization of Balochistan’s natural resources for its development. He affirmed that the federal government is diligently pursuing measures in this regard.

Published in The Express Tribune, April 18^th, 2024.