Mengal critiques state repression in Balochistan at all-party conference during Lakpass sit-in

Sardar Akhtar Mengal, leader of the Balochistan National Party Mengal (BNP-Mengal), addressed an All Parties Conference (APC) during the BNP’s sit-in near Lakpass, Mastung, on Monday. He reaffirmed his party’s dedication to the ongoing protest and expressed frustration over the treatment of political workers during their long march. The APC saw participation from various political parties united in their support for the protest.

Mengal recounted the long march that began in Wadh, facing numerous obstacles along the journey. Upon reaching Mastung, he noted that the roads were blocked, and protesters were met with tear gas and gunfire. Despite these challenges, the demonstrators successfully arrived in Quetta, where they have maintained a sit-in for 17 consecutive days.

Highlighting recent government actions, Mengal alleged that there was a planned suicide attack on the marching convoy that ultimately did not succeed. He also pointed out that protest leaders received notices under the Maintenance of Public Order Act (MPO) and that lawyers advocating for the “illegal detention” of Dr. Mahrang Baloch were compelled to take oaths not to oppose the state of Pakistan.

Mengal questioned the practice of requiring loyalty oaths from lawyers, indicating that individuals in Balochistan, particularly those speaking Pashto, Balochi, or Brahvi, have long been regarded with suspicion. He criticized what he called selective accountability and the suppression of dissent, arguing that advocating for one’s rights is being criminalized.

He raised concerns over the delayed legal proceedings regarding the release of detained BYC leaders, noting that the Balochistan High Court had chosen to “reserve” its verdict on the petition addressing their “illegal detention.” Mengal expressed disappointment with being obstructed from reaching Quetta to convene the APC and questioned the state of democracy in a situation where citizens are seemingly denied the opportunity to voice their grievances.

Mengal urged all political groups to enhance their participation in the sit-in and called for senior members across various parties to join for at least eight days. He stressed that the protest transcended mere political ambitions, advocating for dignity and justice for Balochistan.

Furthermore, he addressed the overarching issue of representation and the need to respect voices from the region, particularly highlighting that the concerns of Baloch girls are often overlooked.

In conclusion, Mengal mentioned that he would consider the proposals made by other parties during the APC and has scheduled a party meeting for the following day. He reiterated that his party would remain steadfast in its commitment to serving the land and its people, refusing to succumb to pressure.