Akhtar Mengal Launches ‘Politics of National Resistance’ Over State Failures in Balochistan

May 4, 2025: In a bold and defiant move, Sardar Akhtar Mengal, President of the Balochistan National Party-Mengal (BNP-M), has announced the launch of a “politics of national resistance,” sharply criticising Pakistan’s state institutions for their continued failure to uphold the rights of the Baloch people.

Addressing a massive gathering at Shahwani Stadium, Mengal condemned the country’s parliament, judiciary, and other state bodies for what he described as systemic repression and injustice. “We will no longer seek permission from the government to conduct our political activities,” he declared, accusing the authorities of forcing people into protest through oppressive policies.

Mengal voiced outrage over ongoing human rights abuses, including the alleged dishonouring of Baloch women, extrajudicial killings, and the discovery of mutilated bodies of missing persons. He warned that if state repression persisted, BNP-M would not hesitate to stage protests even outside military cantonments.

He also launched a scathing attack on Pakistan’s judiciary, accusing courts of functioning under the influence of security officials rather than upholding the Constitution. “Justice is adjourned, not delivered,” he said, claiming that judicial decisions are being dictated by sector commanders.

The gathering also featured powerful speeches by BNP-M Senior Vice President Sajid Tareen Advocate; Iqra Baloch, sister of missing persons’ activist Mahrang Baloch; Nasarullah Baloch, chairman of Voice for Baloch Missing Persons (VBMP); and several other leaders. The speakers collectively demanded the immediate release of Mahrang Baloch and others detained under the Maintenance of Public Order (MPO) Ordinance.

The BNP-M, under Mengal’s leadership, has long championed the cause of Baloch nationalism and greater autonomy for Balochistan. Known for its vocal criticism of Islamabad’s policies, the party continues to call for justice, equitable resource allocation, and an end to military operations in the region.