The return of Abdul Quddus Bizenjo to the Chief Ministership of Balochistan marks a return to office that is seemingly more favourable than the last time he was elected. When he replaced Sardar Sanaullah Zehri of the PML(N) in January 2018, there were hardly six months to the coming election. This time around, after he took over following Jam Kamal Alyani’s resignation, there are well over two and a hlf years to the end of his tenure.
It is almost as if Mr Bizenjo is the go-to guy for those who topple Balochistan governments. The fall of the Zehri government came after that of Nawaz Sharif in the Centre. The formation of the Balochistan Awami Party (BAP) took place at that time, thus preparing what is today a component of the ruling coalition. Jam Kamal at that time was a minister of state in the Centre, but joined the BAP in time for the election, and duly became Chief Minister.
However, though a coalition was cobbled together for him, he could not hold it together, with the result that he has been replaced by a virtually identical coalition. Only time will tell whether Mr Bizenjo will be able to hold his government together. However, it should be clear that attempts to control the politics of the province are become worn ragged, which is why it seems they will no longer work.
It should not be forgotten that Balochistan is home to the only separtist movement in the country, as well as religious militancy, and both are waging armed struggles. After several decades, the armed rebellion of the Baloch had been ended, only to have it pop up again. Apart from the underdevelopment of the province, there has been an impression formed, apparently well-formed judging by recent events, that politics is not the proper route by which to reach one’s goals.
Balochistan has become a target of India, especially RAW and the only thing to do is to leave Balochistan alone, even if it means giving up the leverage it gives certain quarters in the centre. The people of Balochistan must be trusted to decide for themselves. It might take a little time for the Baloch electorate to elect representatives who can give it a stable government, but that wait must be made.
