This revolving door of political affiliations has left many observers perplexed, questioning the motivations behind these fickle allegiances. As the electable eagerly await the upcoming elections, slated for February 8 according to the Supreme Court’s directive, uncertainty looms over whether the scheduled date will be honored. The anxious anticipation among politicians is palpable, driven by the prospect of wielding power, securing coveted positions, and tapping into the public treasury. In the current political landscape of Pakistan, a peculiar phenomenon has taken root, as politicians labeled as ‘looters’ by the common people are fervently jockeying to align themselves with potential ruling parties, namely the PML-N and the People’s Party. This political merry-go-round sees a parade of electable eagerly joining the ranks, with dozens already on board and others patiently awaiting their turn. The recent visits of prominent figures, such as Mian Nawaz Sharif and Asif Ali Zardari, have acted as catalysts, prompting a wave of defections and realignments within the political spectrum. A noteworthy incident unfolded during these visits in Quetta, where Mena Majeed Baloch, a significant figure from Makran, initially joined the PML-N during Sharif’s visit, only to resign and pledge allegiance to the People’s Party during Zardari’s subsequent visit. The reasons behind this sudden switch remain shrouded in mystery, a testament to the enigmatic nature of political maneuvering in the region.

Mena Majeed Baloch had garnered attention through her active presence on social media, projecting herself as a formidable asset for the state in the crucial political arena of Makran, akin to the stature once held by Ms. Zubaidah Jalal. With familial ties to the party and aspirations buoyed by Chairman Senate Sadiq Sanjrani, there is optimism among the party faithful that her influence will secure a significant place in the upcoming elections. The perpetual migration of electable among parties raises questions about the nature of political allegiance. In a candid response, former Chief Minister of Balochistan, Jam Mir Ghulam Qadir, highlighted that it is not the politicians who change parties but rather the parties that change them. He alluded to a long-standing narrative that suggests there is essentially only one political party in Pakistan, and individuals merely shift within its ever-evolving contours. Balochistan’s electable are often regarded as national assets, and the state perpetuates the practice of strategically transferring these assets from one party to another. This dynamic is not exclusive to Mena Baloch but extends to many influential figures in the region. Notably, Syed Ehsan Shah’s shift to BNP Mengal’s camp illustrates the fluidity of political loyalties, with the underlying understanding that these electable carry substantial clout wherever they go. Delving into history, the origin of this political game traces back to Lord Sandeman, who, in exchange for supporting the English government, institutionalized the hereditary sardari system and provided annual stipends to the sardar sahibs. This historical context sheds light on the deeply entrenched dynamics that continue to influence contemporary politics in Balochistan.

Political parties must strive to develop a strong ideological foundation, differentiating themselves based on clear principles and policies rather than relying on the allure of electable. This will enable them to attract genuine supporters who share their vision for the province’s future. Whatever the underlying motives, the constant shifting of electable has detrimental consequences for the political stability of Balochistan. It breeds a culture of opportunism, undermining the credibility of political parties and perpetuating a cycle of instability. Moreover, the dominance of electable hinders the emergence of a genuine democratic process. Their influence often overshadows the voices of ordinary citizens, preventing the formation of a truly representative government. To address this issue, there is a need for a paradigm shift in the political culture of Balochistan. The focus should shift from appeasing electable to empowering the electorate. This can be achieved through initiatives that promote political awareness, civic engagement, and voter education.