- Web Desk
- 17 Minutes ago
Balochistan Assembly speaker, deputy speaker sworn in
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- Web Desk
- Feb 29, 2024
QUETTA: Captain (Retd) Abdul Khaliq Achakzai and Ghazala Gola took their oaths as the newly elected speaker and deputy speaker of the Balochistan Assembly, respectively.
The session, chaired by Zamarak Khan Achakzai, saw Abdul Khaliq Achakzai assuming office after being elected unopposed as the speaker. Subsequently, he administered the oath to Ghazala Gola for the position of deputy speaker.
Notably, both Achakzai and Gola were elected unopposed, with the former representing the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and the latter the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP).
Expressing gratitude for the trust bestowed upon him by Balochistan’s political parties, Abdul Khaliq Achakzai pledged to foster unity among all members and ensure fair proceedings in the assembly.
However, the National Party chose to boycott the session, with Malik Baloch asserting their commitment to respecting the assembly’s integrity. In response, Abdul Rehman Khetran condemned the National Party’s boycott, while Zia Langove called for measures to restrict Dr Malik’s assembly access.
Notably, despite initial nominations from multiple parties, no other candidates contested the speaker and deputy speaker positions by the deadline, leading to the uncontested election of Achakzai and Gola.
Hailing from Chaman, Balochistan, Abdul Khaliq Achakzai’s journey spans military service to political leadership, including roles as a union nazim and district nazim before his tenure as a provincial minister.
Ghazala Gola has her roots in the border town of Sohbatpur, situated between Balochistan and Sindh, Gola brings with her a wealth of experience and dedication to public service.
Born in 1952 in Rawalpindi, Gola’s educational journey began in Quetta’s Joseph Convent School, culminating in her attainment of BA from the Sindh board. Despite facing personal challenges, including the loss of her husband, Gola’s resilience and commitment to her community remain unwavering.
A seasoned politician, Gola first entered the political arena in 2008, securing a seat in the Balochistan Assembly. Her tenure as the first Minister for Women Development Department showcased her passion for gender equality and social progress. Now, in 2024, she adds another accolade to her illustrious career as she assumes the role of Deputy Speaker, a testament to her continued dedication to serving the people of Balochistan.
Yesterday’s assembly session saw the swearing-in of newly elected members, with 58 representatives, including Zamarak Khan Achakzai, participating in the proceedings.