Syed Ali Shah:
QUETTA: In a significant turn of events, two caretaker provincial ministers in Balochistan, Nawabzada Jamal Raisani and Umair Muhammad Hassani, have tendered their resignations following the recent landmark Supreme Court judgment related to the upcoming general elections on February 8, 2024. The resignations were accepted by Governor Balochistan, Malik Abdul Wali Kakar, on Saturday, adding to the political reshuffle in the province.
Resignations and Political Shift:
Nawabzada Jamal Raisani, the former caretaker minister of sports and youth affairs, has aligned himself with the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and is anticipated to contest elections from Mastung on the party’s ticket. Meanwhile, Umair Muhammad Hassani, the ex-caretaker minister of mines and minerals, has not disclosed his political affiliation but is likely to contest from Balochistan’s Chaghi district on the Pakistan Muslim League (N) ticket, being the son of central PML-N leader Sardar Fateh Muhammad Hassani.
Governor’s Acceptance and Political Ambitions:
A reliable source within the Governor’s House confirmed the acceptance of both ministers’ resignations, revealing that the caretaker officials decided to step down to pursue their political ambitions in the impending general elections. The move is seen as a strategic response to the evolving political landscape in Balochistan post the Supreme Court’s ruling.
Sarfaraz Bugti’s Resignation and Political Negotiations:
Notably, the federal caretaker interior minister, Sarfaraz Bugti, also submitted his resignation, which was accepted by caretaker Prime Minister Anwar ul Haq Kakar. Bugti, a key political figure, has yet to announce his political allegiance but is reportedly in talks with multiple parties, including the Pakistan Muslim League (N), Jamiat ul Ulema e Islam (F), and Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP). Sources suggest that Bugti is considering a run for the Dera Bugti constituency and is viewed as a potential candidate for the chief ministership if successful in the elections.
Upcoming Political Developments:
As the political landscape in Balochistan undergoes rapid changes, all eyes are on Sarfaraz Bugti’s impending decision, expected within the next couple of days. The outcome of Bugti’s political negotiations and his potential candidacy for chief ministership add an intriguing dimension to the evolving scenario in the province.
Conclusion:
The resignations of caretaker ministers and the political realignments in Balochistan signify a dynamic prelude to the approaching general elections. With candidates affiliating with various political parties, including the PPP, PML-N, and potential chief ministerial contenders, the province is poised for a transformative political landscape in the wake of the Supreme Court’s judgment.
