QUEETA: The National Awami Party (PKNAP) has announced a province-wide protest movement starting January 1, accusing authorities of deliberately crippling electricity infrastructure in Balochistan districts.
In a press release issued from its provincial secretariat, the party alleged a systematic dismantling of the power system. It claimed multiple feeders are being shut down, wires stripped from poles, transformers removed, and only single-phase electricity supplied—a level “completely incapable” of meeting domestic and agricultural needs.
The statement further condemned the “long lines” of citizens through extensive check-posts in all towns and cities of the region. It also highlighted the forced closure of petrol businesses, particularly in Qila Saifullah district, which it said has rendered hundreds unemployed, labeling these as “openly anti-people and cruel measures.”
In response, the NAP has called for organized protests across South Pashtunkhwa. “An organized protest movement will be launched in cities and districts,” the release stated, outlining plans for meetings, processions, and rallies.
The party has directed all its district, tehsil, and regional units to begin immediate preparations. It also issued a “strong appeal” to the public to participate fully in the demonstrations to raise their voices against these issues of electricity, employment, and human dignity.
Meanwhile the Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti on Saturday praised security forces for a successful counter-terrorism operation in Panjgur, vowing to continue an unrelenting campaign against “Khawarij” elements until their complete eradication from the province.
In an official statement, the Chief Minister commended the “timely and effective” operation by “brave soldiers,” which he said resulted in the elimination of terrorists and thwarted their “nefarious anti-state designs.” He attributed the success to the forces’ “high level of training, operational capability, and unwavering resolve.”
“The professional competence and sacrifices of the security forces are a source of pride for the entire nation,” Bugti stated. He emphasized that at this “decisive stage” in the fight against terrorism, the public stands “shoulder to shoulder” with its armed forces.
