QUETTA: The Democratic Party HDP, led by Chairman Abdul Khaliq Hazara, has forcefully rejected the provincial government’s claim that citizens are migrating from Quetta due to winter, calling it a baseless tactic to postpone local body elections. The challenge was issued during a political rally and the inauguration of the party’s central election office on Alamdar Road on Sunday.
Chairman Hazara dismissed the government’s narrative, stating, “The claim that people are leaving Quetta because of winter is incorrect. This is merely an excuse to avoid holding elections.” He asserted that the citizens of Quetta are, in fact, fully prepared and eagerly awaiting the polls to exercise their democratic right.
Multiple speakers at the gathering echoed this sentiment, accusing the government of attempting to “escape elections” despite public readiness. They argued that if the administration genuinely believes the security situation is too precarious for elections, it has a moral obligation to resign. “If the government feels it cannot provide security for the polls, it should step down on moral grounds,” one speaker stated.
The party also highlighted its legislative contributions, reminding attendees of its significant role in shaping local government laws. Speakers expressed hope that citizens, seeking tangible change and improved governance, would support Democratic Party candidates to bring about reform. The inauguration of the central election office signals the party’s formal campaign launch, directly countering the government’s rationale for any potential delay and intensifying pressure for the polls to be scheduled.
Meanwhile the Balochistan Awami Party (BAP) has launched a scathing critique against the worsening electricity crisis in the province, condemning the prolonged and frequent power outages that have paralyzed daily life following recent rains.
In a strongly-worded statement, BAP’s central spokesperson and former Interior Minister, Mir Ziaullah Lango, expressed deep anger and concern over what he described as the “worst declared and undeclared load-shedding” in Quetta and across Balochistan. He demanded the federal government take immediate and serious notice of the continuous power failures.
