Quetta: Chief Minister Balochistan, Mir Sarfraz Bugti, has reiterated that his government would not compromise on merit in appointments and reforms within the health sector, emphasizing that political pressure would not be allowed to obstruct transparency and professionalism.
He made these remarks during a meeting with a delegation led by Dr. Abdul Bari Khan, President of the Indus Hospital and Health Network, and Planning Commission member Shabana Haider. The delegation discussed healthcare facilities in Baker, Dera Bugti, and potential collaborative projects aimed at improving access to quality medical services in Balochistan. Provincial Health Minister Bakht Muhammad Kakar and Health Secretary Mujeeb-ur-Rehman Panizai were also present.
Sarfraz Bugti added that the government’s foremost priority is to provide basic and quality healthcare to the province’s poor and deserving citizens. He stressed that beyond infrastructure and modern equipment, trained and competent human resources were essential for meaningful improvements in the health sector.
The Chief Minister clarified that no appointment or posting has ever been recommended from the Chief Minister’s Secretariat, underscoring that all decisions must be based on merit and transparency. ‘We will work on merit. I am ready to face political pressure, but there will be no compromise on merit,’ he asserted.
Sarfraz Bugti welcomed the expertise of private and non-governmental organizations, noting that partnerships with institutions like Indus Hospital could help extend quality healthcare to remote areas. The meeting reviewed proposals for healthcare facilities, human resource training, system improvements, and future collaborative projects.
The Chief Minister pledged that the provincial government would continue to align Balochistan’s healthcare system with modern standards, ensuring dignified, timely, and quality medical services for all citizens.
