Nawaz Sharif Assured of “Active Role” in Resolving Balochistan Issues

  • Malik says Balochistan’s issues required political solutions.
  • NP chief recalls Nawaz’s active political role during 2013 tenure.
  • “Nawaz’s role crucial in resolving Balochistan issues.”

LAHORE: Nawaz Sharif, President of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), met with National Party (NP) chief Dr. Abdul Malik Baloch on Wednesday. Sharif assured Baloch that he would take an “active role” in addressing the issues currently affecting Balochistan.

The NP delegation included key figures such as former secretary general Senator Jan Muhammad Buledi, MNA Pullain Baloch, NP Vice President and former MNA Sardar Kamal Khan Bangulzai, provincial president Aslam Baloch, Central Vice President Shahwaz Khan Bizenjo, and NP Punjab President Malik Ayub.

During the meeting, Abdul Malik briefed the former three-time prime minister on the present situation in Balochistan, with a specific focus on the recent arrests and ongoing protests.

Speaking to journalists after the meeting, Dr. Baloch stated that he and Sharif had a detailed discussion about the situation in Balochistan. “I requested Nawaz Sharif to play his political role for Balochistan, and he assured me that he would,” he added.

Dr. Baloch, who previously served as the Chief Minister of Balochistan, mentioned that he had invited the PML-N president to visit Balochistan and meet with local political leaders. “Nawaz expressed his willingness to visit the province, and his visit is expected soon,” he noted.

He emphasized that the issues in Balochistan are political and require political solutions. “We strongly condemn the killing of innocent people in Balochistan,” he added.

Dr. Baloch also recalled Nawaz Sharif’s active political engagement during his 2013 tenure and expressed hope for similar involvement in the future. “We told Nawaz that his role is crucial in resolving the situation in Balochistan.”

The former CM mentioned that Nawaz Sharif and other PML-N leaders extended a warm welcome to them, in line with traditional hospitality.

PML-N leader Khawaja Saad Rafique stated that the meeting primarily focused on the current situation in Balochistan. “Dr. Baloch urged Nawaz to step forward politically, and Nawaz Sharif responded positively,” he added.

The meeting occurred following protests across Balochistan and Karachi related to the recent arrests of Baloch Yakjehti Committee’s (BYC) leadership and a crackdown on their sit-in in Quetta.

BYC chief organiser Dr. Mahrang Baloch and 16 other activists were arrested from their protest camp at Quetta’s Sariab Road on Saturday, a day after they claimed that three protesters died due to police action.

Mahrang, along with 150 individuals, including prominent leaders from the BYC, are facing charges encompassing various serious offences such as terrorism, incitement to rebellion, and murder.

Last month, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif suggested that the PML-N president should play a role in addressing the Balochistan issue.

“Nawaz has already expressed willingness to engage on the matter but is currently following medical advice to rest… he could take an active role after Eid,” the defence minister said during an appearance on Geo News’ ‘Capital Talk’.