QUETTA: Balochistan National Party-M chief Sardar Akhtar Mengal has said that an atmosphere of trust should be created for initiating negotiations with Baloch militants to resolve the conflict in Balochistan.

Talking to reporters in Uthal on his way to Karachi, he said the BNP was holding public meetings and rallies all over the province to highlight the Baloch people’s demands and defend their national rights.

“The gatherings are not part of preparations for any elections, but are aimed at overcoming political fear among the people,” he said, adding that a large public meeting recently held by his party in Quetta had gone a long way in this regard.

Sardar Akhtar said he was unaware of a move for the formation of an opposition jirga, “but if it’s political then we will welcome it”.

He said changes envisaged in the Murree agreement about Balochistan should be implemented.

He emphasised that it was in the interest of the province that an atmosphere of trust be created for negotiations with Baloch militants.

“We have always defended provincial autonomy and favoured empowerment of people over their wealth and resources,” he added.

The BNP-M chief also met Lasbela Deputy Commissioner Syed Abdul Waheed Shah at his office.

Published in Dawn, September 25th, 2015

On a mobile phone? Get the Dawn Mobile App: Apple Store | Google Play