JUI-F and National Party leaders criticise 'artificial leadership' in Balochistan

QUETTA: Senior leaders from Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) and the National Party voiced strong concerns on Saturday regarding what they termed as the imposition of “artificial leadership” in Balochistan through the use of Form 47, sidelining what they described as genuine popular leaders.

During a meeting, JUI-F Balochistan leader Senator Maulana Abdul Wassay and National Party chief Dr Abdul Malik Baloch discussed the current political landscape of the province, with a particular focus on the recent by-elections in Khuzdar. Both leaders expressed the view that the ongoing exclusion of authentic political leadership and democratic forces, in favour of non-representative leaders, undermines democratic values and the public mandate in Balochistan.

The leaders warned that such actions contribute to political instability, unrest, and anxiety among the province's population. They emphasised that weakening the political process in a province as sensitive and conflict-prone as Balochistan could further exacerbate existing challenges.

Senator Maulana Abdul Wassay and Dr Abdul Malik Baloch stressed the importance of continued communication and consultation among genuine political parties. They called for a collective and effective strategy to address the political issues facing the province.

The meeting concluded with both leaders reiterating their commitment to safeguarding democratic principles and ensuring that the voices of the people of Balochistan are represented through legitimate and popular leadership.