Speaking at the All Parties Conference (APC), Sardar Akhtar Jan Mengal thanked all the parties that participated. He said, “We began our long march from Wadh.”
He explained that obstacles were placed in their way and when they reached Mastung, all routes were blocked. “We were welcomed with bullets and tear gas. We’ve been sitting here for 17 days, and all parties have assured their support.”
Sardar Akhtar Jan Mengal said the government tried to disrupt their movement by orchestrating a suicide attack but failed. He mentioned that a 3MPO (Maintenance of Public Order) was issued, which lasts for one month. “On March 24, Mahrang’s sister filed a petition and lawyers were made to take an oath not to act against the state”.
He remarked, “It’s strange that loyalty oaths are demanded from everyone. Have Baloch ever been considered citizens of this country? Since Pakistan’s creation, Pashto, Brahui and Balochi speakers have been viewed as traitors.”
He went on to say, “You can loot and steal from this country and no one will say a word, but speaking the truth is a crime.” He added, “The verdict is ‘reserved,’ but in safe hands the hands of those who have made themselves the owners of the constitution.”
Akhtar Mengal said, “We tried to hold the APC in Quetta, but the roads were blocked. What kind of democracy is this, where you can’t even express your grief?”
He questioned, “Does Mahrang have any Swiss bank accounts? No action is taken against those who break the constitution.”
He appealed, “The number of protesters in the sit-in should be increased. Elders and leaders of all parties should come and sit with us for eight days. When it comes to honor and dignity, there can be no peace.”
Sardar Akhtar Mengal stated, “Even if we get up from here today, this movement will not stop. The people of Balochistan are known for their honor and culture. We are not sitting here just to be members of the assembly. As long as we sit on those chairs, we are recognized. That’s why I resigned from the National Assembly seat.”
He expressed regret that “even the voices of Baloch girls are not tolerated.”
In conclusion, he said, “I will consider all the parties’ requests. I’ve called for a party meeting tomorrow. We must repay the debt of this land without yielding to any pressure.”
