Former Caretaker interior Minister Eyes Political Comeback through PPP in Balochistan

Quetta, A major move in Balochistan's political landscape, former caretaker interior Minister Sarfaraz Bugti is reportedly planning to contest the upcoming general elections from the National Assembly seat encompassing Dera Bugti and adjoining districts. However, a twist in the tale suggests that Bugti might be joining the Pakistan People's Party (PPP) instead of running on his own ticket.

Sources close to Bugti claim that his PPP leanings stem from a strategic decision to avoid clashing with established political families of Balochistan, such as the Akhtarmengals, Malik Balochs, Mahmood Achakzais, and most notably, the Nawab Akbar Bugti family. In the 2018 elections, Bugti, then running on his father's ticket, faced defeat in the Dera Bugti provincial assembly seat against Nawab Bugti's grandson, Ghoram Bugti. Meanwhile, the National Assembly seat was clinched by Shah Zain Bugti, another grandson of the late Nawab.

Analysts suggest that Bugti's potential PPP affiliation could be a calculated move to tap into the party's stronghold in parts of Balochistan and bolster his chances against the dominant Bugti clan. However, his past political trajectory, including his association with the Balochistan Awami Party (BAP) and the Muttahida Majlis-e-Amal (MMA), adds a layer of complexity to his current political maneuvers.

Bugti's entry into the fray could inject fresh energy into the Balochistan leg of the upcoming elections, potentially reshaping alliances and electoral dynamics. Whether he runs under the PPP banner or independently remains to be seen, but his decision is sure to be closely watched in the coming months.