Balochistan Chief Minister Holds Landmark Public Dialogue on X

Key Highlights

• Record Public Participation: More than 16,000 participants, including critics, civil society representatives, and NGO members, joined the open X (formerly Twitter) Spaces session.
• Education & Digital Development: Announcement of a Rs. 4 billion high-speed internet initiative for educational institutions and healthcare facilities across Balochistan.
• Administrative Reforms: Introduction of pension reforms, an Electric Vehicle (EV) policy, and measures aimed at reducing unnecessary government expenditures.

Open X Spaces Discussion Focuses on Governance

Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti participated in an open discussion on X Spaces, where he addressed questions related to governance, public policy, and issues concerning Balochistan. The session included participants from various backgrounds, including critics and representatives of non-governmental organizations, with attendance reportedly exceeding 16,000 people at its peak.

According to the report, the discussion covered narratives surrounding deprivation and missing persons, with the Chief Minister presenting the government's position and responding to participants' questions.

Governance and Institutional Reforms

During the session, the Chief Minister highlighted recent governance reforms introduced by the provincial government, including:

• Pension Reforms: Introduction of pension system reforms aimed at improving financial management.
• Electric Vehicle Policy: Launch of Balochistan's EV policy as part of broader modernization efforts.
• Administrative Efficiency: Measures to reduce unnecessary public expenditure and improve institutional performance.

Youth Development and Education

The Chief Minister also outlined initiatives designed to support young people across the province.

• Rs. 4 Billion Digital Project: High-speed internet connectivity will be expanded to government schools, colleges, universities, and healthcare facilities.
• Scholarships: Education Endowment Fund support and international scholarship opportunities will be available for eligible students.

Comments on Security

Speaking on security issues, the Chief Minister stated that the provincial government remains committed to maintaining public order and the rule of law. He also criticized groups that, according to the government, encourage violence under the banner of public rights.

"The government will continue to protect the writ of the state and ensure peace while addressing public concerns through dialogue and constitutional means."

— Mir Sarfraz Bugti, Chief Minister of Balochistan

According to the report, political observers described the interactive session as an example of direct public engagement, noting that the Chief Minister answered a wide range of questions from participants.