In contemplating the future, Mengal forecasts a grim trajectory where support for traditional political structures is eroding. His prediction that young Baloch people are distancing themselves from national politics reveals a seismic shift one where the future of Balochistan may lie beyond conventional party politics. This disconnect, if left unaddressed, may breed further alienation among the youth. Mengal’s call, therefore, is not merely for immediate political reform but suggests a need to revisit the foundational policies governing Balochistan. This includes reframing political dialogues to center the voices of local communities and ensuring that their concerns are embedded in legislative agendas.

One of the paramount issues affecting Balochistan is the ongoing crisis of enforced disappearances, which Mengal has put at the fore of his political agenda. His insistence that leaders must be called to account for these disappearances speaks to a broader demand for justice and recognition of suffering among Baloch families. The pain and loss experienced by these families cannot simply be placated by compensatory measures; they yearn for acknowledgment and accountability. Mengal’s frustration that “no one listens to us” amplifies a collective cry for justice that has been echoed in protests and political movements across Balochistan. His dismissal of the current state representatives as unworthy of the title “leaders” resonates deeply within the disenfranchised community. The sentiment that “Balochistan is run by GHQ” reflects the complicated dynamics of power where military influence overshadows civilian governance, further complicating and stalling political solutions. The lack of quorum that prevented Mengal from addressing the National Assembly underscores a deeper malaise. His statement that the absence was “by design” suggests a calculated indifference toward the pressing needs and voices from Balochistan, specifically, and the provinces more broadly. Herein lies a critical problem: the political apparatus prioritizes political gamesmanship over genuine dialogue or meaningful engagement with regional issues.

When Mengal notes, “No one is ready to listen to Balochistan issue in the house,” it reveals a reality that extends beyond mere physical absence; it indicates institutionalized neglect when provincial matters are at stake. The decisions made by those in power often eclipse the voices of regional leaders in favor of maintaining a centralized narrative that disregards the distinct identities and challenges that exist within Pakistan. Sardar Akhtar Mengal’s reflections on the ineffectiveness of the parliament demonstrate a key issue: the belief that the very institutions meant to represent the people fail to engage with their plight effectively. This lack of confidence is multifaceted, impacting the judicial systems, political parties, and even the media, which are perceived as having abandoned their responsibilities towards Balochistan.

Mengal’s father, Sardar Ataullah Mengal, was a prominent political figure viewed as a champion for the rights of Balochistan during his tenure as the first elected Chief Minister. His efforts towards educational reform and infrastructure development stand in stark contrast to the prevailing challenges of the current polity, which many perceive as neglectful. The legacy of such leaders sets a foundational context for contemporary discourse and demands. Mengal’s sentiment that he “could not do anything for [his] people” lays bare the disillusionment that many Baloch nationalists feel towards the federal government. His assertion that he resigned because he had lost faith—a mere 1% of hope—highlights a systemic crisis.

The ongoing narrative of neglect and the sidelining of Baloch issues in national discourse only amplifies a growing sense of alienation among the people of Balochistan. His resignation is not just a personal act; it symbolizes the frustration of an entire province that has grappled with indifference, unrest, and deep-rooted injustices. In a bold and defiant move, Sardar Akhtar Mengal, leader of the Balochistan National Party (BNP), resigned from the National Assembly, expressing his profound hopelessness in the state’s ability to rectify the myriad issues plaguing Balochistan. This decision, announced on the significant occasion of the third death anniversary of his father, Sardar Ataullah Mengal, resonates deeply with the long-suffered grievances of the Baloch people. The resignation sends a loud and clear signal: the political status quo is untenable, and radical change is necessary. Sardar Akhtar Mengal’s resignation from the National Assembly is a powerful symbol of the frustration and disillusionment felt by many in Balochistan. His critique of the political system, the military establishment, and the broader state structures highlights the deep-rooted issues facing the province. Mengal’s resignation is not just a personal decision but a broader statement about the need for genuine reform and resolution of Balochistan’s longstanding issues.

As Balochistan continues to grapple with its myriad challenges, Mengal’s resignation serves as a poignant reminder of the need for a more equitable and responsive political system. The call for addressing the root causes of Balochistan’s problems is not just a plea for sympathy but a demand for substantive change. Whether this will lead to meaningful reform or further entrenchment of existing grievances remains to be seen, but Mengal’s actions undeniably highlight the urgent need for a more inclusive and responsive approach to governance in Balochistan. Mengal’s future political strategy appears to involve a continued focus on mobilizing public opinion and advocating for Balochistan’s issues outside the conventional political system. His resignation and subsequent statements indicate a shift towards grassroots engagement and direct communication with the people of Balochistan, reflecting a belief that real change will come from a more informed and active public discourse rather than from within the current political system.

Looking ahead, Mengal’s resignation raises critical questions about the future of Balochistan’s political landscape. His departure from the National Assembly is not just a withdrawal from a legislative body but a significant political statement that challenges the status quo. Mengal’s call for a thorough discussion on Balochistan’s issues suggests a need for a more profound and sustained engagement with the province’s problems.