LAHORE: On Monday, Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar criticized the supporters of Baloch protesters who are currently engaged in a sit-in in Islamabad, protesting against alleged enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings within their community.
Speaking to reporters in Lahore after visiting the Business Facilitation Center, Kakar, accompanied by Caretaker Punjab Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi, suggested that those who believe in the cause should join the camps of banned terrorist organizations, Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) and Baluch Liberation Front (BLF), to clarify their stance.
Responding to a query about the Baloch protesters in Islamabad and reports of police action against them, Kakar mentioned a group from Balochistan protesting against the killing of a youth, led by the Baloch Yakjehti Council.
He emphasized the right to protest under the law but highlighted instances of protesters violating laws and damaging state properties on May 9.
Kakar criticized those comparing the police action to the situation in Gaza, stating that such comparisons require introspection.
He clarified that the Pakistani state’s issue is not with the families of missing persons, acknowledging their right to protest, but expressed concern about individuals associating with banned militant organizations.
The Caretaker Prime Minister underscored that banned groups like BLA, BLF, and Baloch Republican Army believe in armed struggle to break Pakistan, having allegedly caused thousands of deaths. He urged those sympathizing with these organizations to join them for clarity on their loyalties.
Responding to criticism about his ethnicity, Kakar reiterated that the fight is not against Baloch families but against militant organizations.
He emphasized the right of Baloch families to protest and speak, even if their relatives were involved in terrorism. Kakar challenged those criticizing him to answer questions about individuals killed by these organizations.
Regarding the IMF loan, he expressed hope for the next tranche and suggested that the country’s goal should be to collect more taxes to eventually free itself from IMF dependence.
Kakar acknowledged the importance of loans in the economy but emphasized the need for wise dispensation and spending.
