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       QUETTA: National Party President Dr Abdul Malik Baloch has claimed democracy was declining in the country and institutions were making their grip on political affairs stronger, which, he said, would “harm the democracy”.

       He made these remarks on Saturday while presiding over National Party’s central convention in Quetta. Hundreds of leaders and workers have arrived in Balochistan’s capital to attend the four-day event.

       Mr Baloch, the former Balochistan chief minister, also expressed serious concerns over the prevailing political and security situation. He claimed Pakistan was diplomatically isolated as its ties with neighbouring nations were deteriorating.

       He lamented the rise of proxy wars and criticised major political parties for “abandoning” their commitment to democratic values, including the Charter of Democracy.

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       The National Party chief alleged that the 2018 and 2023 elections were “manipulated”. The electoral exercise further weakened parliamentary politics and fueled insurgency, he claimed

       This, Mr Baloch said, has led to widespread disillusionment among the youth about democracy, while nationalist forces have been deliberately sidelined.

       Despite this, the people of Balochistan were resolute in defending their basic rights, which has led to resurging nationalist sentiments.

       Dr Baloch emphasised that the National Party has become a stronghold for nationalist, progressive, and pro-people activists from across the country.

       Published in Dawn, October 27th, 2024