Balochistan CM Bugti urges Fazl to keep national security above politics

Quetta, Pakistan: Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti of Balochistan has emphasized that law and order, as well as national security, must be prioritized above political disagreements. He urged comparisons between the governments of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan to focus on accurate facts and practical steps rather than political motivations.

Bugti expressed high regard for JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman, whose party had also faced terrorist attacks. He hoped Rehman would acknowledge the state's efforts in combating terrorism and the sacrifices made by security forces when discussing this critical national issue. The Balochistan chief minister suggested assessing the performance of both provincial governments based on their counterterrorism measures, political leadership behavior, and dedication to eradicating terrorism.

Despite political differences, Bugti pointed out that both sides in Balochistan had consistently opposed terrorism, showing a shared commitment to national interests over partisan politics. His government consistently engaged with the opposition on counterterrorism strategies and key decisions within the Balochistan Assembly. Bugti mentioned acknowledgments from Opposition Leader Mir Younis Aziz Zehri and a recent speech by Balochistan National Party (Mengal) parliamentary leader Mir Jahanzeb Mengal, signifying the province’s political leadership’s recognition of their role in the fight against terrorism.

He reiterated that the fight against terrorism is not a mere political declaration but a collective duty of the state and the entire nation. Pakistan continues its efforts to eliminate terrorism, with officers and personnel of the Pakistan Army and other security forces making significant sacrifices. Bugti described Maulana Fazlur Rehman as a senior politician whose party has also endured human and political losses due to terrorism.

He stressed that when comparing the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan governments, the focus should be on their practical counterterrorism measures, coordination among political leaders, and cooperation with state institutions.