The process of nominating a caretaker Chief Minister (CM) for Balochistan is facing delays due to disagreements between the outgoing Chief Minister, Abdul Qudoos Bizenjo, and the Opposition Leader, Malik Sikandar Khan Advocate.
Under Balochistan’s legislative framework, a caretaker CM’s nomination should follow within three days of the assembly’s dissolution. By this schedule, Tuesday was the designated deadline. However, despite discussions between the outgoing Chief Minister and the Opposition Leader, an unanimous decision remains elusive.
Although both leaders have been in discussions over potential candidates, specifics remain undisclosed. Notably, inside sources suggest that a proposal to nominate Ali Mardan Domki, a former district mayor of Sibi, met with disagreement from Bizenjo. Sources further indicated that consensus on any candidate’s name could spring a surprise, much in the same manner of the unexpected appointment of caretaker Prime Minister Anwar-ul-Haq Kakar recently.
Other names in consideration include the tribal leader Malik Shah and Prince Ahmad Ali from the prominent Khan family of Kalat. Despite the varied suggestions, Ali Mardan Domki is frequently highlighted in media as a potential favorite.
In a related development, the Balochistan National Party (BNP) and Nasrullah of PKMAP have communicated their concerns to the Assembly Speaker, highlighting a perceived lack of broader consultation in suggesting names for the parliamentary committee. Specifically, BNP Mengal voiced concerns that the committee’s proposed names lean heavily on Jamiat members, without broader representation from the opposition.
If the Chief Minister and Opposition Leader remain at an impasse, the matter will shift to the parliamentary committee. Each side will propose three names for the role. Should the committee also find itself unable to decide, the Election Commission will make the final decision.