Deploring bomb attacks: Security guards to protect MPAs, says CM

QUETTA: Balochistan Chief Minister Dr Abdul Malik Baloch promised to bolster the security of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz MPA Majid Abro after Saturday’s botched attempt on his life. The provincial chief minister also announced that all assembly members would be provided security guards. He deplored Saturday’s bomb attack as ‘an act of cowardice’.  The chief minister also insisted that the law and order situation had comparatively improved in Balochistan due to better coordination between the provincial and federal governments, paramilitary troops and security agencies.   “The terrorists did not achieve what they wanted,” Dr Malik said.” Responding to a question about negotiations with separatists, Dr Malik said he offered the option of talks to armed groups but there has been no contact with their leaders. “Rights can be attained by a democratic struggle, not through violence,” he said.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 6^th, 2014.