Balochistan National Party leader Akhtar Mengal resigns from National Assembly
Mengal was elected as an MNA from Khuzdar (NA-256) in the general elections held on February 8.
Balochistan National Party (BNP) leader Sardar Akhtar Mengal resigned from the National Assembly on Tuesday.
BNP-M chief Akhtar Mengal submitted his resignation as a member of the National Assembly (MNA) on Sept 3, 2024.
The veteran politician’s resignation — pending acceptance — occurs amid rising security tensions in Balochistan, following recent deadly attacks and escalating protests over enforced disappearances in recent months.
Speaking to media outside the Parliament House, Mengal said he was resigning as he had been unable to do anything for his constituency.
The BNP leader voiced his disillusionment with Pakistani politics, suggesting running a pakora stall would be more worthwhile than remaining involved in the current political scene. He criticized the lack of understanding regarding the Balochistan issue and the erosion of trust in various institutions.
Mengal highlighted the severe suffering in Balochistan, where countless lives have been lost due to ongoing conflict. He stressed the need for a unified effort to address the crisis and called for a dedicated meeting to discuss the matter. He expressed frustration that discussions about Balochistan are often abruptly shut down.
He requested that his perspectives be heard with patience, even if they were contentious, and declared his readiness to face any repercussions for his statements, including death. He appealed for his voice to be acknowledged, feeling ignored and isolated.
Mengal also lamented the lack of interest in the Balochistan issue, even among his own party members. He pointed out the irony of the parliament acknowledging the losses in Balochistan while failing to take effective action.
He further criticized the hypocrisy of politicians who seek his support during election times but then dismissed his concerns. He questioned the appointment of Mahmoud Khan Achakzai as Chairman of the Committee for the Protection of the Constitution, doubting its purpose and effectiveness.
