Political Dialogue Over Military Action: Multi-Party Conference Addresses Balochistan’s Challenges

A multi-party conference organized by the PTI, led by Balochistan National Party (BNP-M) leader Akhtar Mengal, highlighted the deteriorating security situation in Balochistan and emphasized the need for political dialogue, human rights protection, and constitutional governance to restore peace in the province.

The gathering called for an end to enforced disappearances and alleged human rights violations, urging impartial investigations into these issues. Participants demanded that all missing persons be produced in court and advocated for the release of political prisoners, including former Prime Minister Imran Khan and other detained leaders, stressing that political disputes must be resolved through democratic and legal means.

The declaration rejected military-led solutions, arguing that the province’s challenges require inclusive negotiations involving political stakeholders, tribal leaders, and local community representatives. It proposed the establishment of a truth and reconciliation commission to address historical grievances and foster long-term stability.

Attendees also called for independent judicial probes into incidents causing civilian casualties and violence in Balochistan. They emphasized the importance of granting humanitarian organizations access to conflict-affected areas for aid delivery. Additionally, the conference pushed for the removal of restrictions on trade, transportation, and communication to improve economic conditions in the province, while opposing policies that could alter its demographic makeup.

PTI leader Asad Qaiser criticized the representation of lawmakers in Balochistan, suggesting that local body elections are necessary for grassroots decision-making. The event was attended by figures including Pashtunkhwa Milli Awami Party (PkMAP) Chairman Mehmood Khan Achakzai, Barrister Gohar Ali Khan, PTI Balochistan President Dawood Shah Kakar, Awaam Pakistan Party head Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, and representatives from Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam (JUI-F), Jamaat-i-Islami, and the National Democratic Movement (NDM), alongside legal experts, academics, and civil society members.

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