Muhammad Ismail:
Quetta: The Balochistan National Party (BNP) staged protests across Balochistan, including a large demonstration outside the Quetta Press Club, in opposition to cases registered against party chief Sardar Akhtar Jan Mengal and other leaders.
BNP leaders Malik Naseer Shahwani, Ghulam Nabi Marri, and Mir Maqbool Lehri led supporters in Quetta, condemning what they called a “targeted move” against their leadership.
During the protest, Shahwani stated, “This attempt to silence our leader will only strengthen our resolve for Baloch rights.” Ghulam Nabi Marri added, “We demand an end to these baseless cases against our leadership, which is fighting for justice and dignity in Balochistan.”
The cases against Mengal and BNP members stem from recent public meetings where Mengal openly criticized government policies and highlighted issues facing the Baloch people.
The party claims the cases are politically motivated and an infringement on their right to free speech. The BNP has a history of advocating for the rights of Balochistan’s residents and has frequently clashed with authorities over policies viewed as oppressive.
Protesters vowed to continue their demonstrations until the cases are withdrawn, with Lehri affirming, “We will not back down in our struggle for justice and accountability.”
