CHAGAI: The third phase of local government elections will be held in Chagai on Thursday.

Sources privy to political developments believed that Sanjranis were likely to win 12 out of 23 union councils as they have already clinched a majority of special seats in union councils. However, the Notezai Group could easily secure the Dalbandin Municipality Chairmanship, the sources said.

The Al-Fateh Panel, led by Member of Provincial Assembly (MPA) Mir Muhammad Arif Mohammad Hasni, has already secured majority in seven union councils with the support of one of their tribal ally.

Former provincial minister Sakhi Amanullah Notezai-led Baba-i-Chagai Panel has joined hands with Mr Hasni to contest the polls against the Sanjrani Panel, led by Senate Chairman Sadiq Sanjrani’s younger brother Ejaz Sanjrani. Mr Ejaz Sanjrani is also the coordinator to the Balochistan chief minister. Both leaders have arrived in Dalbandin, the district headquarter of Chagai, to ensure their members’ loyalty.

The Notezais and the Hasnis have accused the Sanjranis of using government funds for gaining weightage in local bodies elections.

However, the Sanjranis say they are gaining public support due to their better performance in serving the masses.

Some sources claimed that some differences existed among the Sanjrani Panel over nominations of the chairmen in a few UCs.

But sources in the panel said the rifts would be settled as a committee had been formed and Mr Ejaz was holding talks with disgruntled panel members.

Published in Dawn, February 8th, 2023