Sarfaraz Bugti’s Statement Sparks Debate, Triggers #AkbarBugtiNationalHero Campaign

QUETTA – In a highly offensive statement, Sarfaraz Bugti the military-backed Chief Minister of Balochistan has ignited widespread backlash by declaring that calling the late Nawab Akbar Bugti a martyr is “unjust to the Pakistani Army.” His remarks have stirred public sentiment, particularly among the pro-freedom Baloch activists and Bugti’s supporters, accusing him of settling personal scores using his official position.

Sarfaraz Bugti, himself a member of the Bugti tribe and a critic of Nawab Akbar Bugti, made the statement during a public address, where he criticised attempts to honour the late chief of the Bugti tribe as a national martyr.

Nawab Akbar Bugti, who was martyred in 2006 during a military offensive under General Pervez Musharraf’s regime, remains a highly respected figure in Balochistan and beyond.

Sarfaraz Bugti’s remarks have unleashed a storm on social media, with the hashtag #AkbarBugtiNationalHero trending across various platforms. Thousands of users, including prominent Baloch activists, political leaders, and citizens, have expressed outrage, calling Nawab Bugti a “hero” who stood up for the rights of the Baloch people against state oppression.

The hashtag has seen widespread participation, with many sharing images of Nawab Akbar Bugti, hailing him as a symbol of resistance.

Critics of Sarfaraz Bugti have accused him of using his official platform to settle personal and tribal scores. Several commentators pointed out that his opposition to Nawab Bugti stems from longstanding internal rivalries when Nawab Bugti expelled his father from Dera Bugti, and that Sarfaraz Bugti’s current position of power has enabled him to attack Nawab Bugti’s legacy with impunity.

Political analysts have highlighted the delicate nature of Bugti’s remarks, especially given his role as Chief Minister, which demands impartiality.

While the mixed government, of Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) and Pakistan People’s Party of Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, has yet to comment on Sarfaraz’s offensive remarks officially, sources suggest that some within the administration are concerned about the fallout of Bugti’s statement. Political analysts have warned that such comments could have long-term implications for Sarfaraz Bugti and the currently ruling parties.