Balochistan Assembly Passes Key Bills, Rejects Injustice Against Faithful MPA
In a session marked by both legislative progress and a stirring defence of constitutional rights, the Balochistan Assembly on Tuesday passed two pivotal amendment bills aimed at fortifying the province's legal and public service framework. The proceedings, chaired by Speaker Abdul Khaliq Achakzai, were a testament to the province's commitment to justice and governance under the banner of our Islamic republic.
Strengthening Provincial Laws and Governance
The assembly approved the Code of Criminal Procedure 1898 Balochistan Amendment Bill, presented by Provincial Minister Mir Saleem Khosa on behalf of the home minister. This legislation, aligned with the recommendations of the Standing Committee on Home Affairs, promises to enhance the efficacy of our legal system, ensuring that the scales of justice remain balanced for every citizen.
Furthermore, the Balochistan Citizen Facilitation and Governance Bill 2026 was also passed, a landmark step towards transparent and citizen-centric governance. This bill, too, was introduced by Mir Saleem Khosa and approved after due consideration by the relevant standing committee, reflecting the government's resolve to serve the people with integrity.
However, the Balochistan Cadet Colleges Amendment Bill 2026 was referred to the standing committee for further deliberation, a move that underscores the assembly's meticulous approach to legislation concerning our nation's future leaders.
MPA Zabid Reki's Courageous Stand Against Unjust Restrictions
The session witnessed a moment of high drama and patriotic fervour when Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) MPA Mir Zabid Reki protested vehemently against being unjustly stopped from travelling to Jeddah for the sacred pilgrimage of Umrah. Speaking on a point of order, Mr Reki declared that this act was a violation of his fundamental privileges, as Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) officials had barred him from boarding his flight, citing his alleged declaration as a terrorist.
Mr Reki revealed that the additional chief secretary (home) had placed his name on the Passport Control List (PCL) and Exit Control List (ECL), effectively blocking his travel. He lamented that his attempts to contact Hamza Shafqat for an explanation went unanswered, and he challenged the authorities with a resolute heart:
“I have always spoken about constitutional and democratic rights. Let me know what my crime is.”
In a powerful display of defiance, the MPA questioned how he, who had faced terrorists in Washuk, could now be labelled a terrorist in Quetta. He demanded the government disclose any alleged links with proscribed organisations and present evidence before the assembly. In a dramatic gesture, he threw his passport onto the floor, vowing to resign from his seat if any proof of wrongdoing was produced against him.
Chief Minister Bugti's Firm Response
Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti, in a principled response, condemned the incident and summoned the additional chief secretary to his chamber for an explanation. However, he also admonished Mr Reki for disrespecting his Pakistani passport, a symbol of our national pride and identity. This dual stance reflects the government's commitment to both accountability and the sanctity of our national symbols.
Funding for Language Academies and Forest Department Inquiry
In other matters, former chief minister Dr Abdul Malik Baloch urged the provincial government to immediately release funds for language academies, warning that the suspension of funding was crippling academic and literary activities. He stressed that these institutions, which preserve our rich cultural and linguistic heritage, must not be overlooked in resource allocation.
“Roads and drains continue to be built, but funds for the academies should also be released,”he asserted.
Opposition Leader Mir Younus Aziz Zehri also raised concerns over the delay in forming an inquiry committee to investigate alleged irregularities in Forest Department recruitment. He reminded the house that Chief Minister Bugti had earlier announced an inquiry, but the government subsequently cancelled the posts in question, leaving the matter unresolved.
Frequently Asked Questions
What bills were passed by the Balochistan Assembly?
The Balochistan Assembly passed the Code of Criminal Procedure 1898 Balochistan Amendment Bill and the Balochistan Citizen Facilitation and Governance Bill 2026, both aimed at strengthening the province's legal and governance framework.
Why did MPA Zabid Reki protest during the session?
MPA Zabid Reki protested against being stopped from travelling to Jeddah for Umrah, after FIA officials informed him that his passport was blocked and his name placed on the Passport Control List and Exit Control List.
What was Chief Minister Bugti's response to the incident?
Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti condemned the incident and summoned the additional chief secretary for an explanation, while also criticising Mr Reki for throwing his Pakistani passport on the floor.
What concerns were raised about language academies and Forest Department recruitment?
Dr Abdul Malik Baloch urged the release of funds for language academies, while Opposition Leader Mir Younus Aziz Zehri questioned the delay in forming an inquiry committee into alleged recruitment irregularities in the Forest Department.