Increased Violence in Balochistan as Pakistan Approaches National Elections
GHRTV
01-02-2024
Angelique van der Burgh
Pakistan Researcher,
Global Human Rights Defence
Pakistan will host its elections on February 8th in a turbulent political environment. Most recently, the province of Balochistan has been experiencing violent incidents, including terrorist attacks [1]. Today, one person was killed and five were injured due to multiple attacks in the Balochistan region [1]. The authorities have not been able to prove today's incidents were targeted at the upcoming elections. However, previous incidents of violence in Balochistan were politically motivated and targeted the upcoming elections. For example, on January 30th, Zahoor Ahmed, a local leader of the Awami National Party was killed at the election office [2]. Additionally, eight individuals were left injured, including political workers and security officials. The increase in violence and terrorism has led to an active response within the Balochistan province, in which 21 terrorists have been killed during its Mach operation [3].
Balochistan is experiencing an increase in violence from authorities, terrorists, and individuals as it heads to the election polls on February 8th. The Pakistani Army has expressed its dedication to keeping Pakistan safe in the days leading up to, and the day of the elections [4]. More specifically, the Pakistani army has stated it will not allow individuals to commit violent acts in the name of political activity and will protect the freeness and fairness of the upcoming elections. [4]. It will be of interest in the upcoming days to observe how the Pakistani army aims to do so, and if the elections can remain calm, free, and fair.
Sources and further readings:
[1] https://www.dawn.com/news/1810300/1-killed-5-injured-in-multiple-attacks-across-balochistan
[2] https://www.dawn.com/news/1810231
[3] https://www.geo.tv/latest/529337-security-forces-kill-12-more-terrorists-in-balochistans-mach
