Qaseem Shah:
QUETTA – May 2: A heated session unfolded in the Balochistan Assembly on Friday as opposition lawmakers staged a walkout in protest against what they described as a breach of trust in the recently passed Balochistan Mines and Minerals Act.
Dr. Malik Baloch, leader of the National Party, strongly criticized the government, accusing it of reintroducing controversial provisions into the final bill that had already been removed during committee discussions. He claimed this act amounted to a serious violation of parliamentary norms and warned of firm resistance.
“This is not just legislative manipulation—it’s a betrayal of the opposition’s trust,” Dr. Baloch said, vowing not to allow any compromise on the province’s coastal rights and natural wealth.
Joining the protest, JUI-F lawmaker Zabit Ali Reki also walked out of the session, voicing concern over what he called “one-sided changes” to the law. He said the opposition’s input was being sidelined, undermining the democratic process.
In response, Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti defended the government’s approach and called the opposition’s reaction unfortunate. He assured the House that the Speaker would launch an investigation into how the removed clauses were reinserted into the final version. He also pledged to form a joint committee with opposition members to review the disputed sections.
“The government values inclusivity and transparency,” said CM Bugti. “We are open to working with the opposition to address any concerns.”
The incident has sparked political friction and renewed debate over legislative transparency and resource control in Balochistan.
