ISLAMABAD, Aug 6: National Party leader Senator Mir Hasil Khan Bazinjo on Monday said ministers of Balochistan had nothing to do with local issues that was why they had shifted their secretariats to Karachi.

Speaking at a round table debate on ‘Balochistan: Beyond Government’s Claims’, he said the only solution to problems of the province lied in fair elections. He, however, said Balochistan could not be separated from Pakistan.

The debate was organised by Centre for Research and Security Studies.

The Balochistan leader said in the past Levy Force was used to ensure law and order but now it was being used to give jobs to favourites. He added: “The federal government is doing nothing to bring about peace and stability to the area.”

He maintained issue of missing persons should first be addressed which was a prerequisite to bringing the young Baloch, who had started armed struggle against the country, to the negotiating table.

Senior defence analyst Lt-Gen (retired) Talat Masood said although army had a role in Balochistan, it was not correct to say that it would create hurdle in negotiations because army’s reputation was also at stake.

Senior journalist Ijaz Ahmed said members of Hazara community were being killed by extremists because Hazaras traditionally joined law enforcement agencies which the extremists did not like.

Former National Reconstruction Bureau chairman Danial Aziz said seventh NFC award had been announced and issue of gas prices was resolved so now there was no reason for the struggle against the federation.

Vice President of National Party Dr Ishaq Baloch said youth of Balochistan had been ignored during appointments for jobs at federal level.

“The biggest issue of Gwadar is water but no one has bothered to resolve it,” he said. — A Reporter