Balochistan political parties announce province-wide shutdown

Major political parties in Balochistan have announced a province-wide shutdown strike scheduled for November 19, followed by demonstrations at all district headquarters. The decision was reached during an all-parties conference organized by the Awami National Party (ANP) at the Quetta Press Club, chaired by ANP provincial president Asghar Khan Achakzai.

In a joint declaration, participating groups, including the National Party, Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam, and Pashtunkhwa National Awami Party, described the province's situation as “alarming and unacceptable.” They cited several critical issues, including persistent insecurity, terrorism, extremism, targeted killings, and kidnappings for ransom. The parties also highlighted the unresolved issue of missing persons, rising unemployment, and economic deterioration.

Economic concerns raised include the impact of closed trade and transit routes with Afghanistan and Iran, soaring inflation, and frequent electricity and gas outages. Leaders also noted difficulties for transporters and restrictions on essential agricultural supplies like urea fertilizer. A provincial-level meeting is set for November 26, with a subsequent conference planned for early December to present these concerns to national leadership.