Under Abdul Malik Baloch, the future of our nation’s most troubled province may brighten. PHOTO: FILE
The decision is a remarkably unselfish one, and suggests that Mr Sharif genuinely wishes to solve the many issues of Balochistan. While his party holds the largest number of seats in the provincial assembly, with nine candidates elected to general seats and the support of, at least, eight independents, he has decided to grant the CM’s post to the NP, and that of governor to the PkMAP. As Sharif said, values should be put ahead of personal gains. This is indeed a positive mode of thinking and represents a new start in our politics. If such an approach to the province is taken on other issues as well, we can hope for progressive steps on many issues.
There are also other new factors. Dr Baloch becomes virtually the first commoner, without the title of “Sardar” prefixed to his name, to become the chief minister of Balochistan. This in itself is a huge step forward for the province. He is also an individual who commands a great deal of respect and is regarded as a man of much sincerity to the cause of his people. This, and the NP’s close links with nationalists may help solve the problems of Balochistan — though it would be unfair to expect immediate progress. It is also worth noting that Dr Baloch was recommended by hundreds of civil society organisations who favoured him to head the next government in Balochistan. It appears that Mr Sharif has, very sensibly, taken note of their wishes, dropping his own party candidate Sanaullah Zehri, a somewhat controversial figure.
Under Abdul Malik Baloch, the future of our nation’s most troubled province may brighten. Let us hope this is indeed the case.
Published in The Express Tribune, June 4th, 2013.
Like Opinion & Editorial on Facebook, follow @ETOpEd on Twitter to receive all updates on all our daily pieces.
COMMENTS (4)
Comments are moderated and generally will be posted if they are on-topic and not abusive.
For more information, please see our Comments FAQ
1729301728-0/Taylor-(3)1729301728-0-165x106.webp "article")
1729298320-0/usher-(1)1729298320-0-165x106.webp "article")
Mian Sahib has proved once again that he is not power hungry and working for the unity and progress of Pakistan.
I agree with most comments and editorial. The only solution of Baluchistan is to empower the local people with full autonomy and a big share in their natural resources. Let us stop behaving like a colonial power. We should not continue to ignore the lessons of E. Pakistan.
NS is behaving like a statesman. Good for him.
A positive step.