New Balochistan cabinet sworn in

Around 14 newly appointed members of the provincial cabinet were sworn in on Friday. Governor Balochistan Malik Abdul Wali Kakar administered the oath to the ministers, emphasizing their commitment to serving the people of the province.

The ministers include Mir Zahoor Buledi, Mir Sadiq Umrani, Sardar Sarfaraz Chakar Domki, Sardar Abdul Rehman Khetran, Bakht Muhammad Kakar, Nawabzada Tariq Magsi, Ali Madad Jattak, Saleem Khoso, Rahila Durrani, Ziaullah Langove, Mir Shoaib Nowsherwani, Mir Asim Kurd Gailo, and Faisal Jamali.

The inaugural meeting of the provincial cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Mir Sarfaraz Bugti, convened at the Chief Minister’s Secretariat. In a solemn moment, prayers and fatiha were offered for those who lost their lives in various tragic incidents, including natural disasters and acts of terrorism.

Chief Minister Bugti addressed the gathering, underscoring the pivotal role of the cabinet in steering Balochistan towards progress and prosperity. He stressed the importance of unity and collaboration among cabinet members to address the challenges facing the province.

“We have a collective responsibility to uplift the common man and improve governance across Balochistan,” Bugti asserted. “Our administration will exemplify good governance through unwavering dedication and adherence to merit.”

Highlighting the pressing need for reform, Bugti outlined a comprehensive plan comprising approximately sixty initiatives aimed at enhancing governance. He urged ministers to actively engage with their respective departments, ensuring efficient service delivery and accountability.

“To gauge progress, Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) will be established to evaluate departmental performance,” Bugti announced. “Corruption will not be tolerated, and strict measures will be enforced to uphold integrity and transparency,” he added.

Bugti emphasized the implementation of an effective accountability framework, extending from the cabinet to grassroots levels. He rallied support for the ongoing battle against terrorism, reaffirming the government’s commitment to safeguarding Balochistan and Pakistan.

In a show of solidarity, ministers and advisors expressed confidence in Chief Minister Bugti’s leadership and vision for Balochistan’s development. They pledged unwavering support to realize the shared goal of progress and stability in the province.

As Balochistan embarks on a new chapter under the stewardship of its dedicated cabinet, hopes are high for a brighter future marked by prosperity, good governance, and inclusive growth.

Bugti said that providing maximum relief to the public and strengthening good governance were key priorities for the provincial government.

Talking to media persons after the oath taking ceremony at governor house, he said that the ministers who took oath would be allotted their portfolios soon. The chief minister said that the formation of the cabinet took time due to the consultation with all coalition parties. He said that currently, Balochistan was facing many challenges including terrorism and effective measures were in place to eliminate it and maintain law and order.

The chief minister said that rescue and relief efforts continued in rain hit districts, adding that our teams were busy to deal with the recent torrential rains and flood situation across the province. Sarfraz Bugti said that if help was needed to deal with emergency situation, the province would seek support from the federal government.

Published in The Express Tribune, April 20^th, 2024.