QUETTA/ISLAMABAD: On Wednesday, tragedy struck Balochistan as two separate explosions rocked the region, resulting in a devastating toll just a day ahead of Pakistan’s general elections. At least 28 individuals lost their lives, and over 40 sustained injuries in these attacks targeting election candidates.
The initial blast, which occurred outside the political office of independent candidate Asfand Yar Khan Kakar in the Khanozai area of Balochistan’s Pishin district, claimed the lives of 15 people, with more than 30 others wounded.
Asfand Yar Khan Kakar is contesting elections from NA-265 constituency and Balochistan Assembly constituencies PB-47 and PB-48.
Meanwhile, the second explosion targeted the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam Fazl (JUI-F) office in the Killa Saifullah district, resulting in 13 fatalities and 17 injuries. Fortunately, JUI-F leader Maulana Abdul Wassay, contesting elections from PB-3, escaped unharmed.
Following these tragic events, emergency measures were swiftly implemented across hospitals in Quetta, with additional staff mobilized to aid the injured. Operation theaters at various medical facilities stand ready to provide necessary treatment.
The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has promptly responded, initiating an investigation into the incidents and demanding a report from the Balochistan chief secretary and Inspector General of Police (IGP).
Directives have been issued to take decisive action against those responsible for these reprehensible acts.
Asfand Yar Khan Kakar, who was fortunately not present at his office during the explosion, revealed that the blast occurred from a motorcycle parked outside his election office, resulting in the tragic loss of eight workers and injuring more than 18 others.
Minister Achakzai condemned the attacks, affirming that such cowardly acts would not deter the nation’s resolve against terrorism. He assured that the fight against terrorism would persist until its complete eradication.
