QUETTA: Balochistan interim chief minister Mir Ali Mardan Domki is actively engaged in consulting relevant authorities and senior colleagues to establish his caretaker cabinet, with reports about its formation in two phases.

Reports indicate he has held discussions and interviews with a diverse range of individuals, including politicians, technocrats, and others interested in joining the interim cabinet.

During an initial phase, around 12 ministers will be inducted, followed by the addition of more ministers in the subsequent phase. Several political parties, including BAP, JUI-F, PML-N, ANP, and the Jam group, are striving to have their representatives appointed to pivotal ministries such as planning and development, finance, communication and works, irrigation, public health engineering, health, and agriculture.

Notably, the JUI-F and the Jam Kamal Khan group hold substantial influence due to their integral roles in Domki’s selection as interim chief minister. Sources believe the JUI-F is likely to secure three to four ministries as a recognition of sacrificing their strong candidate, Mir Usman Badini, for the caretaker CM position. Similarly, the Jam Kamal group is expected to lead important ministries. The list of potential cabinet members primarily comprises new faces, although some experienced individuals are also in consideration.

Names such as Prince Ahmed Ali Ahmedzai, Ramaeen Mohammad Hasni, Shakeel Durrani, Amjad Rasheed, Agha Umar Bangulzai, Sajid Dashti, Molvi Mohibullah, Jan Achakzai, Obaid Gorgage, Sardar Fareed Dummar, and Atta-ul-Haq are circulating for cabinet positions. Additionally, a female candidate will be included in the caretaker cabinet. Reports suggest a former coordinator of the ex-chief minister, Shania Khan Kakar, is poised to assume the role of spokesperson for the Balochistan government.

The cabinet’s swearing-in ceremony is anticipated to take place on Monday.

Visit to Lehri, Sibi

Mr Domki has affirmed his commitment to operating within the confines of his authority and dedicating his efforts to resolving the issues of the province.

He made these assertions during a visit to Lehri and Sibi after assuming office.

Addressing the local populace and officials, he emphasised his role as a caretaker chief minister and his intention to address as many issues as possible within the limited time frame.

On the occasion, he was joined by former minister of state Mir Dostain Khan Domki, Sibi Commissioner Shahid Saleem, Deputy Commissioner Mansoor Ahmed Qazi, and other senior officials. He expressed his purpose of comprehending the predicaments faced by the people and conveyed his plans to personally visit all districts of the province for this purpose. He underlined that his visits were devoid of political motivations, as he aimed to steer clear of political involvements in his capacity as a caretaker CM.

Mr Domki, referring to the Pinjra Bridge which was washed away in last year’s floods, outlined his focus on permanently restoring the bridge. Additionally, he mentioned his intention to request the interim PM for the dualisation of the Bolan to Dera Allah Yar highway. He revealed extending an invitation to the interim PM to brief him on the prevailing issues. He emphasized his intent to discuss resolutions for electricity-related issues and strive for improvements in healthcare and education.

Acknowledging the multitude of challenges faced by Balochistan, he acknowledged the constraints of limited resources but affirmed his dedicated efforts toward the well-being of the population. While acknowledging his restricted powers as interim chief minister, he prioritized upholding law and order and ensuring fair elections. He committed to adhering to the guidelines stipulated by the Election Commission of Pakistan.

Published in Dawn, August 21st, 2023