A test for his democratic credentials
The farce in Balochistan seems not to have ended yet. Now that almost only 48 hours remain for the assemblies to be dissolved, the once booted out Chief Minister of Balochistan Aslam Raisani, as reported by a section of media, seems all set to reclaim for at least two days the throne he lost over corruption, gross negligence and inefficiency almost two months ago. More interested in the perks and privileges of being the chief executive of the largest province in the country, Raisani ran the government in absence, true to his feudal background. Now that the Governor’s rule imposed on Raisani’s dismissal has expired, he is reportedly demanding to be reinstated as the CM.
Old habits die hard, or so they say. Instead of calling a meeting of his party’s parliamentary leaders in the provincial capital, Raisani called it in the federal capital, his favourite place for quality R&R. The situation has become complex due to his refusal to resign from his post, taking a U-turn on his earlier deal with the PPP-led central government. Constitutionally, as Governor’s rule can’t be extended without a joint sitting by the parliament, and with only two days before the parliament is dissolved, such a sitting is near impossible, making it easier for Raisani to grab the chance and hold on to power a little longer. Given that the provincial assembly is also dissolved along with the national assembly, instead of when it completes its term on April 5 in which case while Raisani might personally benefit there could be complications for both the federal government and ECP to conduct elections – he would try to milk it the way he deems fit. Considering his track record, it would be justified to ask whether he will resign on 16 March or try to extend his term to 5 April. Another pertinent question about the whole scenario is who the leader of the opposition in the provincial assembly would be. With virtually every MP a minister in Balochistan assembly, this is going to be a unique situation, the one that would give Raisani a chance to nominate a person of his choice as caretaker CM. Sounds juicy for a once disgraced CM.
While this whole charade is being laid out, the province continues to rile in a deteriorating law and order situation. Two Czech women tourists were kidnapped the other day in the province while the police claimed to have arrested 11 minors involved in dozens of terrorism activities in the province. How can the government pay any attention towards this situation when it is busy in dabbling who gets lion’s share of the spoils, so to speak?