QUETTA: Taking exception to the allegations of receiving support from the ‘establishment’, Sadiq Sanjrani on Sunday said his role as Senate chairman in the coming days would speak of his political neutrality.
Speaking to media outside his residence in Quetta, Sanjrani said there was no truth in claims that the ‘establishment’ supported him for the Senate top slot. “Senators from across Pakistan voted in favour of me in election for chairman of Upper House of parliament as a candidate from Balochistan,” he said. The efforts of Balochistan Chief Minister Abdul Quddus Bizenjo and other provincial assembly members helped his election as the Senate chairman as they solicited support from other political parties, he added. He also thanked Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan, Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) supremo Asif Ali Zardari and other senators for their support.
Referring to ruling PML-N’s allegations, the Senate chairman said all political parties were equal to him and that he had great respect for former prime minister Nawaz Sharif.
To a question, Sanjrani said all four provinces should have a chance of having their representative as chairperson in the Upper House on rotation basis.
He promised to work in the interest of Balochistan and help the province and its people progress, especially in areas where it lagged behind. He said new laws will be enacted to protect the interests of Balochistan, besides addressing the prevailing grievances. “New legislation is required to fill loopholes and ensure implementation of the existing laws,” he said.
Published in Daily Times, March 19th 2018.
