Sardar Akhtar Mengal, leader of the Balochistan National Party (BNP-Mengal), has resigned from the National Assembly.
During a press briefing in Parliament, Mengal expressed his frustration, stating, “Today, I announce my resignation from the National Assembly. I have been unable to do anything for my people.”
He articulated a deep disillusionment with the country’s political mechanisms and leadership, including the state, the president, and the prime minister, criticizing their failure to grasp the critical issues facing Balochistan. Mengal lamented, “Our ancestors taught us to speak with respect, but the government in the country has become a mere formality.”
Highlighting the political environment, Mengal compared the appeal of politics in Pakistan unfavourably to running a fritter shop due to the persistent misunderstanding and neglect of Balochistan’s issues. He stressed the gravity of the ongoing losses of life in Balochistan and the urgent need for collective action to address the situation while condemning the lack of serious dialogue on the matter. “Whenever the issue is brought up, it is blacked out,” he said.
Mengal made a poignant plea for attentiveness and dialogue, saying, “If you disagree with my statements, please listen to them patiently. If you still find them wrong, I accept any punishment. You can even encounter me or kill me outside Parliament, but at least listen to what I have to say. No one listens to us.”
Read: Baloch Activist Dr. Mahrang Baloch Responds to Criticism Amid Violence in Balochistan
He disclosed that he did not consult his party before resigning and expressed concern over the general disinterest in Balochistan’s plight within the legislative framework. He also noted that Parliament has acknowledged losing effective control over Balochistan.
Sardar Akhtar Mengal, elected as a Member of the National Assembly from NA-256 Khuzdar, plays a significant role in Pakistani politics and is a staunch advocate for the people of Balochistan.
