Balochistan cabinet set to be shuffled

Large-scale changes are likely in coming days

QUETTA:

A major reshuffle in the Balochistan cabinet is expected in the coming days, with key ministerial changes likely, sources within the provincial government told The Express Tribune.

The shake-up appears to follow recent visits by Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) leader Nayar Bukhari and Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N) leader Khawaja Asif, indicating a possible shift in the political landscape.

Sources revealed that Sardarzada Faisal Jamali, the current health minister, will likely be moved to the livestock ministry. In his place, Bakht Muhammad Kakar is expected to take over the health portfolio, a significant move considering the province's ongoing healthcare issues.

Meanwhile, Meena Majeed, a PPP MPA from Mekran, is reportedly being considered for a long-vacant advisory role in the cabinet. She is expected to be assigned the sports and youth affairs portfolio, filling a position that has been vacant for five months.

There are also unconfirmed reports that Nawab Changaiz Marri may be brought into the cabinet as a provincial minister, potentially taking charge of the communication and works department.

If this happens, Saleem Khoso, the current minister, may be moved to the home and tribal affairs ministry.

Discussions are also underway regarding a possible bifurcation of the education ministry. Raheela Hameed Khan Durrani, the current education minister, may see her portfolio split, as Noor Muhammad Dumar and Muhammad Khan Lehri are reportedly lobbying for a share of the department.

The reshuffle seems to be influenced by the recent visits of Bukhari and Asif, suggesting that the changes may be part of a broader political realignment. Official announcements are expected soon.

Balochistan has been hit hard by deteriorating law and order situation in the recent months evident from the attacks on buses in which residents from the largest province were targeted.