Kakar’s pick as interim PM has ‘widened distance’ between PML-N, BNP-M: Mengal

Introduction:
The appointment of Kakar as the interim Prime Minister of Pakistan has sparked controversy and widened the divide between two major political parties, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and the Balochistan National Party-Mengal (BNP-M). Sardar Akhtar Mengal, the leader of BNP-M, has expressed his concerns regarding the selection of Kakar, citing it as a move that undermines the interests of Balochistan. This article delves into the reasons behind Mengal’s discontent and the potential implications of this political rift on the country’s stability.

Background on Kakar’s Appointment:
Following the sudden resignation of the former Prime Minister, the responsibility of selecting an interim leader fell on the shoulders of President Arif Alvi. In an unexpected move, he appointed Kakar, a member of the PML-N, as the interim Prime Minister until the next general elections. This decision raised eyebrows, particularly among the BNP-M, as they believed their party, being a key stakeholder in Balochistan, should have been consulted before such an important appointment.

Mengal’s Concerns:
Sardar Akhtar Mengal, a prominent Baloch leader and head of BNP-M, has been vocal about his discontent with Kakar’s appointment. Mengal argues that the decision was made without considering the interests and aspirations of the people of Balochistan. He claims that Balochistan has long been marginalized and neglected by the federal government, and this appointment further exacerbates the grievances of the Baloch people.

According to Mengal, the BNP-M has always emphasized the need for empowering the people of Balochistan and addressing the province’s longstanding issues. However, he believes that Kakar’s appointment disregards these concerns and perpetuates the existing power imbalance in favor of the dominant political parties.

Implications for PML-N and BNP-M:
The appointment of Kakar as interim Prime Minister has strained the relationship between the PML-N and BNP-M. The BNP-M is an important ally of the PML-N in Balochistan, and this rift could have significant consequences for both parties. The BNP-M has been a strong advocate for the rights of Balochistan, and their disillusionment with the PML-N could lead to a loss of support in the province.

Moreover, this development has opened up opportunities for rival political parties to exploit the growing divide between the PML-N and BNP-M. Opposition parties, such as the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), could capitalize on the situation and attempt to gain an advantage in Balochistan, further weakening the PML-N’s influence in the province.

The federal government’s handling of Balochistan’s concerns also has broader implications for the stability and unity of Pakistan. Balochistan has long been plagued by socio-economic challenges and a sense of political marginalization. Failure to address these issues could fuel separatist sentiments and exacerbate the existing fault lines within the country. The PML-N, as a major political party, must recognize the significance of addressing Balochistan’s grievances and work towards building a more inclusive and equitable political system.

Conclusion:
The selection of Kakar as interim Prime Minister has deepened the rift between the PML-N and BNP-M, with Sardar Akhtar Mengal expressing his dissatisfaction with the decision. Balochistan’s grievances and demands for empowerment have been overlooked, further alienating the province from the federal government. The implications of this political divide go beyond the two parties involved, potentially affecting the stability and unity of Pakistan. It is crucial for the PML-N and other political stakeholders to address the concerns of Balochistan and work towards a more inclusive political system that represents the interests of all regions and communities.