IT appears that despite the holding of elections and formation of a new government in Balochistan, a parallel system — run by the security apparatus — is still calling the shots in the province. A strike was observed in several districts of Balochistan recently in protest against the dumping of bullet-riddled bodies in different areas. It is widely alleged that the security forces, and pro-establishment militias, are responsible for the kidnapping and killing of suspected separatists in most cases. It is a harbinger of the incredibly difficult challenges ahead that as a new elected government prepares to take the reins, mutilated bodies are still turning up in Balochistan. Dr Abdul Malik Baloch, who was elected chief minister on Saturday, has said that recovering missing persons and ending the practice of dumping corpses are amongst his priorities, while he also made overtures to separatists, urging them to adopt the path of dialogue. However, the new chief minister’s initiatives can only succeed if he is given the space by the establishment to pursue his policies.

What is required is for the people, especially in Baloch-dominated areas, to regain their confidence in the state and the political process. Heavy-handed tactics such as abducting, torturing and killing activists will do little to foster the spirit of reconciliation. Elections will not make a difference if such brutal methods continue to be used; such actions will only increase the level of alienation amongst the Baloch. If there is evidence that individuals are involved in militancy, separatism or violence, proof of such activities must be produced in court. Extra-legal methods of countering separatist sentiment will only be counter-productive. Balochistan today is at the crossroads. It can turn a new page if the elected government is given the freedom by the establishment to continue the political process and bring all elements to the negotiating table. Or, if the present style of managing the province’s security issues continues, we may cross the point of no return. The ball is in the establishment’s court.