ISLAMABAD, October 19,2024: Balochistan National Party (BNP-Mengal) Chief Sardar Akhtar Mengal has categorically rejected the proposed constitutional amendments currently being discussed in secrecy, stating that he will not support any changes imposed by force.
Following a meeting with Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (F) Chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman and Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari in Islamabad, Mengal expressed concerns about the ongoing political situation, emphasizing that negotiations cannot take place until missing members of parliament are returned.
He also criticized the government’s handling of the proposed constitutional amendments, questioning why they are being introduced in a secretive manner and raising doubts about their true origin.
Mengal further criticized the government’s focus on constitutional amendments while critical issues affecting the citizens remain unaddressed.
He called for transparency, stating, “The constitution is not a secret document; it should be open and accessible to every citizen.” He suggested that the ruling establishment may be trying to conceal the details of the amendments, as they appear reluctant to disclose them to the public.
The BNP-Mengal chief also condemned the harassment and abduction of party members, asking, “Is this a democratic process? Such actions have no place in any democratic nation.” He raised concerns about whether the amendments are being pushed by the government, its allies, or other factions that have historically opposed the constitution, labeling these efforts as a threat to democratic norms.