QUETTA: The Balochistan National Party (BNP) has strongly criticised recent statements made by what it described as “political wanderers”, saying they should reflect on their own political history, as they continue to change locations, loyalties, and parties every few months.

In a statement, the party defended its chief Sardar Akhtar Mengal as a “dignified, ideological, and national leader” who had spent his entire political life struggling for the rights, identity, and dignity of the Baloch nation.

Before criticising such public leaders, these “political wanderers” should examine their own conduct and political history. The party claimed such individuals, who had no ideology, political principles, or connection with public struggle, continued to shift political camps for personal interests, the pursuit of power, and temporary gains.

“Today [they are] in one party, tomorrow in another, and the next day at another doorstep,” the statement said, adding that such elements are now unsuccessfully trying to enhance their stature by criticising genuine leadership.

BNP defends its chief, accuses rivals of using the province as a ‘lab’ for power politics

The BNP said the serious problems facing Balochistan, including lawlessness, political uncertainty, underdevelopment, economic collapse, unemployment, and a worsening security situation, were the result of the policies and actions of these same political wanderers.

It alleged that certain figures had repeatedly turned Balochistan into a “laboratory” for power and personal interests, pushing the province deeper into crisis instead of resolving public issues. It further claimed that Balochistan’s resources were exploited and its youth pushed into deprivation.

Published in Dawn, May 11th, 2026