MNA Phullain Baloch on CPEC, Balochistan’s Future

Zareef Baloch

Gwadar: In a telephone interview, Phullain Baloch, the Deputy Secretary of the National Party and a newly elected Member of the National Assembly representing Panjgur/Kech in the 2024 elections, discussed his perspectives on the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and the challenges confronting the local population of Balochistan, including security issues.

Regarding CPEC, Baloch expressed disappointment regarding the expectations of the people of Balochistan from CPEC and other mega projects, noting that these initiatives have not yet translated into visible improvements in their livelihoods or lifestyles.

He highlighted the lack of basic facilities in Gwadar, including Makran, despite being the starting point of CPEC.

According to him, CPEC projects seem to benefit Punjab and other areas more than Balochistan due to what he perceives as neglect governance towards the people of Balochistan.

Regarding Prime Minister Mian Shehbaz Sharif’s recent visit to China, Phullain Baloch acknowledged the hope for more investment but expressed concerns about corruption, political instability, and strict investor conditions due to Pakistan’s economic crisis.

He emphasized that resolving economic challenges requires time and serious efforts.

When asked about major challenges in Balochistan, Phullain Baloch emphasized national identity, a sense of deprivation, and political inequality as fundamental issues that must be addressed to prevent further backwardness and lack of positive change in the province.

He criticized historical neglect of Balochistan’s problems and stressed the need for genuine political solutions to improve law and order and resolve ongoing unrest.

Regarding the performance of the Balochistan government, Baloch cited strikes, roadblocks, and increasing unemployment as indicators of the region’s challenges. He underscored that unless these issues are addressed promptly, Balochistan may face a worsening crisis.

On security challenges, Phullain Baloch reiterated the National Party’s stance on improving law and order in Balochistan to foster a peaceful environment. He attributed the poor security situation partly to feelings of deprivation and backwardness among the population, exacerbated by historical neglect and exploitation of Balochistan’s resources.

Regarding development in Gwadar under CPEC, Phullain Baloch stressed the need for prioritizing local needs such as drinking water, health facilities, and electricity systems. He criticized the lack of visible benefits reaching local residents, which he believes undermines the perception of progress from such development projects.

Phullain pledged to prioritize the development of Panjgur and Kech in his constituency, aiming to tackle backwardness and improve basic facilities. He emphasized the importance of collective projects to address broader issues facing Balochistan.

Discussing unemployment in Balochistan, MNA Baloch highlighted the lack of industries and economic opportunities, especially in Makran. He advocated for creating mechanisms to formalize border trade activities along the Pak-Iran border, which currently sustain many livelihoods despite being labeled as smuggling.

Phullain Baloch also emphasized the urgent need to address political identity, national identity, and economic crises as crucial challenges facing Balochistan, stressing the importance of effective governance and equitable development policies to uplift the province.

Zareef Baloch is a freelance journalist and a regular contributor to PenPK from Gwadar.