The protests against alleged poll rigging in Quetta and other regions of Balochistan have escalated unrest in the region. The four-party alliance, consisting of Baloch, Pashtun, and Hazara nationalist parties, has been on a sit-in outside the deputy commissioner’s office in Quetta. They are denouncing the purported election irregularities and demanding their grievances be addressed.
Haji Atta Muhammad Bangulzai, a prominent leader of the National Party (NP), stated, “We refuse to relent until our demands are addressed.” Women are actively participating in the protest, highlighting the widespread discontent among the people.
The alliance, comprising Balochistan National Party (Mengal), Pashtoonkhwa Milli Awami Party (PkMAP), National Party (NP), and Hazara Democratic Party (HDP), has issued ultimatums to the Election Commission of Pakistan and returning officers across the province, warning of intensified protests if their demands are not met.
The protests, ongoing since February 9, have brought Balochistan to a virtual standstill, as major highways remain blocked, showcasing the deep-seated frustration and discontent among the populace regarding the integrity of the electoral process.
On February 15, at least two persons were killed and around a dozen were injured during an exchange of fire between two rival political groups in the Hub city of Balochistan, as the police failed to bring the situation under control.
The protests have caused significant disruption in Balochistan, and the people are demanding accountability and fairness in the electoral process. The authorities need to address the grievances of the protesters to prevent further escalation of unrest in the region.
