Qaseem Shah, News Desk:
Quetta, October 7:
Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti has said that the province’s greatest challenge is not law and order or so-called insurgency, but corruption, which has deeply damaged institutions, the social fabric, and public trust—especially among the youth.
Speaking at the closing ceremony of the Inter-University Sports Festival at Balochistan University of Information Technology, Engineering and Management Sciences (BUITEMS) on Anti-Corruption Day, the Chief Minister emphasized that “without eliminating corruption, there can be no development, justice, or good governance.”
The ceremony was also addressed by Provincial Advisor on Sports and Youth Affairs Meena Majeed Baloch, Director General NAB Balochistan Nauman Aslam, and BUITEMS Vice Chancellor Dr. Khalid Hafeez.
‘Corruption Has Damaged the Foundation of Our Society’
CM Bugti stated that while Balochistan’s security forces are fully capable of handling peace and security challenges, the core issue lies in systemic corruption. He said, “Our institutions have been weakened by corruption, which must be eradicated to ensure transparency, accountability, and justice.”
Highlighting his government’s commitment to merit-based governance, Bugti said that for the first time in Balochistan’s history, over 12,000 to 16,000 teachers were recruited purely on merit in the Education Department, adding that this culture of merit would be expanded to all sectors.
He reaffirmed his government’s determination to revive sports grounds and provide healthy opportunities for youth engagement, calling it a vital step toward building a corruption-free and progressive society.
‘Accountability Is Above Politics and Relationships’
Bugti emphasized that accountability institutions in Balochistan, including the Chief Minister’s Inspection Team, Anti-Corruption Establishment, and departmental accountability units, have been strengthened to ensure transparency at every level.
He said, “For the first time, a Chief Minister Inspection Team chairman submitted an inquiry report against his own brother — this is proof that accountability is not influenced by personal relations or political pressure.”
Bugti added that during his tenure, “No phone call has ever been made from the Chief Minister’s Secretariat to influence anti-corruption investigations.” He reiterated that no individual is above the law, and the accountability process remains completely independent and impartial.
‘Youth Are the Real Strength of the State’
Addressing the students, the Chief Minister said, “The real power of the state is not the gun but the educated, honest, and conscious youth.”
He urged the youth to stay away from propaganda against Pakistan, saying that dissatisfaction with governance is acceptable but the state itself has committed no sin. He called upon students to dedicate themselves to truth, integrity, and service, asserting that a society built on these values will automatically eliminate corruption and injustice.
Bugti also highlighted the introduction of Balochistan’s first-ever Youth Policy, aimed at empowering young people through education, employment, and civic participation.
‘Transparency, Accountability, and Institutional Reforms’
The Chief Minister announced that the Balochistan government has launched effective institutional reforms to promote transparency and take strict action against corrupt elements without discrimination.
“Honest officers will be encouraged, and restoring public trust in government institutions is our top priority,” Bugti said.
He added that corruption is not limited to financial misconduct — neglecting responsibilities, violating working hours, and breaching public trust are also forms of corruption.
Bugti concluded by saying, “If our youth unite against corruption, we can build a transparent, strong, and prosperous Balochistan for future generations.”
He commended Advisor Meena Majeed Baloch, Secretary Dara Baloch, and the entire organizing team for the successful conduct of the sports festival, emphasizing that such positive activities will continue through upcoming youth summits and sports events.
