Furthermore, three seats are reserved for minority communities, ensuring inclusive representation. The newly elected members will solemnly swear their allegiance to the Constitution under the provisions of Articles 65 and 127, along with Rule 5 of the Balochistan Provincial Assembly. This oath-taking ceremony, presided over by Speaker Mir Jan Muhammad Jamali, signifies their commitment to serve the people and uphold the rule of law.

Due to inclement weather, potential security concerns, and anticipated protests, the Assembly secretariat has decided to restrict visitor access during the oath-taking ceremony. This measure aims to ensure a smooth and secure process for the newly elected members, speaker, deputy speaker, and leader of the house.

With the support of 33 members required to form a government, backroom negotiations and parliamentary party meetings are in full swing. Speculations suggest a possible coalition government consisting of the People’s Party (PPP), Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), and Balochistan Awami Party (BAP). This potential alliance holds the numerical strength to form a stable administration.

Based on ongoing discussions and meetings, it is expected that Jayala will be appointed as the Chief Minister, while the senior minister position might be filled by a PML-N candidate. The Speaker’s role is likely to be awarded to the PML-N, whereas the Deputy Speaker’s post might be offered to the PPP. Cabinet ministries are also speculated to be distributed proportionately, with PPP and PML-N potentially receiving six ministries each and BAP securing two. The remaining parties, namely Jamiat-e-Ulema-e-Islam (JUI), BNP Mengal, BNP Awami, and Awami National Party (ANP), along with Haq Du Tehreek, might potentially form the opposition alliance. The final composition of the opposition is expected to be revealed shortly.

The Balochistan Assembly has a rich history, dating back to 1972. Initially established with 20 general seats and one reserved seat for women, the Assembly has witnessed an evolution in its size over the years, reaching its current composition of 65 members. Over the past 50 years, the Assembly has seen the passing of 276 bills, 244 privilege motions, and over 800 adjournment motions. It has also facilitated the raising of over 7,000 questions and the passage of more than a thousand resolutions. Notably, the Assembly proceedings were initially conducted in the Shahi Jirga until 1987, before shifting to its current location, inaugurated in 1987.

While the first seven Assemblies were unable to complete their full terms, a positive shift emerged in 2002. Since then, the eighth Assembly successfully completed its term, followed by the ninth, tenth, and eleventh Assemblies achieving the same feat. This signifies a growing commitment to democratic stability in the province.

As the elected members of the 12th Balochistan Assembly prepare to take their oath, the eyes of the Balochistan people are firmly fixed on their representatives. The members hold the responsibility of legislating on critical issues for the next five years, shaping the future trajectory of the province. Their actions will be scrutinized and their decisions will impact the lives of countless individuals. This new Assembly carries the hopes and aspirations of a people yearning for progress and prosperity.