Sarfraz Bugti, a prominent Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) leader, has been elected unopposed as the Chief Minister of Balochistan. The election unfolded at the Balochistan Assembly, where Sarfraz Bugti emerged as the sole nominee for the coveted position of Leader of the House. However, members of the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI) and the National Party abstained from participating in the poll, and notable absenteeism was observed among JUI members during the session.
Sarfarz Bught elected unopposed as Chief Minister of #Balochistan after obtaining 41 votes.
PPP, BAP, PMLN, HDT, ANP, & JI MPA's voted for Sarafarz Bught.
JUI.F MPA's didn't participate in the CM electoral process whereas NP parity elected MPA's boycotted today.#Balochistan pic.twitter.com/XsB9yPNUVU
— Jaffar Khan kakar (@Jaffar_Journo) March 2, 2024
With all 42 present members casting their votes in favor, Sarfraz Bugti comfortably surpassed the simple majority requirement of 33 votes needed to assume the pivotal role of Leader of the House. This uncontested appointment occurred in a scenario where no opposing candidates had submitted papers against Bugti.
Balochistan Governor Abdul Wali Kakar is scheduled to administer the oath of office to Bugti at the Governor House in Quetta. The ceremony is anticipated to draw attendance from members of the National and provincial assemblies, alongside senior government officials. Adding to the significance, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari is expected to grace the occasion and participate in the oath-taking ceremony.
In his address to journalists upon submitting his nomination papers, Sarfraz Bugti conveyed his gratitude and determination. He underscored that his paramount focus would center on combatting corruption and reinstating law and order in Balochistan, acknowledging the enormity of these challenges. Bugti extended appreciation to the party leadership for their trust and support, pledging to uphold the values and principles of the Pakistan People’s Party in his new capacity as Chief Minister.
Critics and Sarfraz Bugti
The seamless election of Sarfraz Bugti as the Chief Minister of Balochistan, with no opposing candidates contesting against him, has stirred a wave of criticism. Bugti, a PPP leader, faced scrutiny due to his prior role in the caretaker government setup for months. According to the Pakistan Constitution, members of the caretaker setup are prohibited from contesting in the subsequent elections. Bugti’s ascendancy to the position of Chief Minister has raised concerns about the adherence to constitutional norms and principles.
CM Balochistan, Sarfaraz Bugti, was part of the caretaker setup for months (resigning just before the election schedule was announced).
The Constitution prohibits members of caretaker cabinets from contesting the following elections, a resignation cannot bypass this. pic.twitter.com/MoBSEjPxXN
— Rida Hosain (@RidaHosain) March 2, 2024
Critics argue that Bugti’s participation in the caretaker government should have rendered him ineligible to vie for the Chief Minister’s post. The controversy has sparked discussions about the integrity of the electoral process and the need for stringent adherence to constitutional regulations. As Balochistan grapples with political transitions, the legal intricacies surrounding Bugti’s election have become a focal point of debate, questioning the conformity to democratic norms and constitutional provisions.
