Need for democracy: We have always fought with dictators: Dr Malik

LAHORE:

Balochistan Chief Minister Dr Abdul Malik has said the situation in Balochistan will improve if democracy continues in the country.

Talking to reporters on Saturday during a dinner given in his honour at Arfa Software Technology Park, Dr Malik said, “We have always been at loggerheads with dictators – from General Ayub Khan to Pervez Musharraf – and have always challenged them.”

He said Balochistan can progress and come at par with Punjab if it is provided with Rs400-500 billion. “It is possible if Balochistan is given resources, commensurate with its size,” he said.

Referring to his scheduled meeting with Punjab CM Shahbaz Sharif, Dr Malik said he would ask Shahbaz what strategy he adopted to transform Lahore. “So that we may also improve Quetta,” he said.

Published in The Express Tribune, May 17^th, 2015.