Out of the 65 members constituting the Balochistan Assembly, a total of 57 peoples’ representatives took the solemn pledge of membership, setting the stage for the legislative responsibilities ahead. In the absence of Speaker John Muhammad Jamali, the responsibility of administering the oath fell upon the newly elected Chairman Panel and former Senior Minister of the preceding Cabinet, Zammaruk Khan Achakzai.

The oath-taking process adhered to the guidelines laid out in Article 65 and 127, along with Rule 5 of the Balochistan Provincial Assembly. The Governor of Balochistan called for the meeting under Article 109 A. Notably, visitor cards were not issued for this occasion due to adverse weather conditions, concerns over law and order, and the anticipation of potential protests. The scheduled time for the swearing-in ceremony, set for 3 o’clock, witnessed the resounding chimes of the bells that marked the initiation of the new chapter in the Balochistan Assembly. Members commenced their arrival at 2 o’clock, displaying punctuality and a sense of dedication. However, the formal proceedings for the swearing-in of the 12th Balochistan Assembly began 42 minutes behind schedule. Following the customary recitation and welcoming remarks, the members undertook the solemn oath of membership, underscoring their commitment to the legislative responsibilities entrusted to them.

Post the swearing in ceremony, the attention of the House now turns to determining the procedural steps for the selection of key positions, including Speaker, Deputy Speaker, and Leader of the House. The seasoned political figures at the forefront include Nawab Raisani, Chief of Sarawan, and Nawab Zehri, Chief of Jhalwan, who are marking their presence in the Assembly for the remarkable eighth time. Mir Sadiq Imrani and Raheela Hameed Durrani, with their fourth consecutive term, are set to contribute to the legislative process, whether from the government or opposition benches. Notably, three members are serving for the seventh term, while 19 are embarking on their second term. The 12th Balochistan Assembly is enriched with a blend of experience, with the senior parliamentarian Nawab Aslam, aged 68, representing the seasoned spectrum, while the youngest member, Umm Kulsoom, at 24, adds a touch of youthful dynamism.

On the other hand, the Assembly paints an incomplete picture as Sardar Akhtar Jan Mengal of BNP from PB-20 Khuzdar 3 and Jam Kamal from PB-21 Hub has announced their decision to vacate their provincial assembly seats. In addition polling results of eleven polling stations of PB 7 Ziarat Harnai are still pending, introducing an element of uncertainty and anticipation in the political landscape. As the 12th Balochistan Assembly moves forward, it faces the challenge of navigating through the intricacies of leadership selection and addressing the pending re-polling issues. The democratic spirit, diverse representation, and the collective responsibility assumed by the members offer a glimpse into the potential for positive contributions that this new chapter holds for the province.