Balochistan Security Crisis Prompts Jirga Convened by Mahmood Khan Achakzai
Mahmood Khan Achakzai, leader of the Pakhtunkhwa Milli Awami Party (PkMAP) and opposition leader in the National Assembly, has called for a three-day jirga in Quetta from August 29 to 31 to address the escalating security crisis in Balochistan. Achakzai expressed deep concern over the worsening situation, citing daily increases in danger and seriousness. The proposed jirga aims to bring together political leaders, tribal elders, and other stakeholders to deliberate on rising insecurity, including attacks on highways, disruption of trade, destruction of commercial vehicles, and the killing of judges, lawyers, political workers, and civilians. Following these discussions, recommendations will be formulated to tackle the issue. Achakzai also announced nationwide protest rallies for August 5, marking three years of former Prime Minister Imran Khan's imprisonment. He criticized the government's perceived failure to restore peace and protect citizens' lives and property, and lamented the limited roles of Parliament and provincial assemblies, alongside alleged media restrictions. The PkMAP chief opposed proposed district divisions in Pashtun-majority areas of Balochistan, anticipating further complications. He highlighted targeted attacks on Pashtun-owned commercial vehicles, warning of potential transport operation suspensions if attacks continue. Concerns were also raised about the killing of laborers and the authorities' handling of security incidents, with Achakzai questioning the lack of accountability for senior officials. Allegations of extortion against goods vehicle drivers on national highways were also made, with a call for effective government and security institution action. Finally, he criticized high airfares between Quetta and Islamabad and addressed compensation issues for damaged vehicles, emphasizing that lasting peace requires strengthening democratic institutions, an independent judiciary, and a free media, rather than solely relying on force or tribal militias.
The convening of a jirga by Mahmood Khan Achakzai signals a significant public demand for enhanced security and governance in Balochistan, driven by escalating violence and economic disruption. The event highlights systemic challenges in maintaining law and order, impacting trade, livelihoods, and civilian safety. Achakzai's critique of state institutions, including Parliament, security forces, and media, points to a perceived governance deficit and a lack of effective problem-solving mechanisms. The focus on constitutional and democratic means for resolution, alongside opposition to tribal militias, suggests a preference for state-led security and justice, yet the underlying issues of targeted violence and extortion indicate potential failures in state capacity or intent. The call for accountability and effective action against perpetrators, coupled with concerns over economic impacts like extortion and high transport costs, underscores the interconnectedness of security, economic stability, and public trust. Future efforts will likely be shaped by the capacity of state institutions to address these multifaceted challenges and rebuild confidence among affected communities.
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