Editorial
According to Article One of the Constitution, Pakistan is recognized as a federal republic. This type of government involves the distribution of powers between the federation and its federal units, a principle that is enshrined in the nation’s most sacred document. The present-day Pakistan is a historical federation comprising Punjab, Sindh, Balochistan, KPK, and Kashmir, each with unique and rich cultural, linguistic, ethnic, and geographical backgrounds and histories that contribute to the diversity and richness of our nation.
It is imperative for Pakistan to operate as a federation, yet regrettably, the country has been governed more as a unitary state. A federal state should embrace, preserve, and foster diversity by respecting and protecting the unique cultural, linguistic, ethnic, and geographical backgrounds of its federal units while guaranteeing autonomy rights. The failure to function as a federal state has created a political vacuum that has often been filled by parochial and regional politicians.
The tangible presence of Punjabi, Pashtun, Baloch, and Sindhi nationalism underscores the need to align this nationalism with that of Pakistan. This alignment is crucial for our nation’s unity and can only be achieved if Pakistan operates as a federal state. Failure to do so results in regional and parochial suppression, thereby paving the way for the emergence of nationalistic leaders such as Mnazur Pashteen and Mahrang Baloch.
The state of Pakistan has struggled to address the political sensitivities of the Baloch people. The Balochistan issue predominantly revolves around identity, political rights, and cultural preservation. It is of utmost importance that we address these sensitivities. Dr. Mahrang Baloch embodies this sentiment. Unlike previous Baloch nationalists, who were primarily chieftains, Mahrang Baloch represents the middle class and youth of Balochistan. Her resonance with the young Baloch populace is evident in her compelling political rallies.
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Consequently, there is a necessity to integrate Balochistan into the Pakistani Federation as a federal unit. This is more of a political matter than an economic one. Allowing federal political parties to operate in Baluchistan is one of the enduring solutions to the challenges facing the region. Moreover, the governance of Baluchistan should conform to federalism and the constitution of Pakistan, ensuring the right of the people to elect their provincial governments and representatives without interference.
