Nawab Khair Bakhsh Marri, born in February 1928 in Balochistan's Kohlu region, was a prominent figure in Baloch politics. Hailing from one of the most influential families in the province, Marri was known as a "born nationalist" and played a significant role in shaping Balochistan's political landscape. This article delves into the life and legacy of Nawab Khair Bakhsh Marri, highlighting key events and shedding light on his unwavering commitment to Baloch separatism.
Early Activism and Political Awakening: Marri's political consciousness developed in the early 1960s when the Baloch tribes rallied against the mistreatment of Sardar Nauroz Khan, a respected chieftain. The turning point occurred on October 10, 1958, when a clash between the Army and Nauroz Khan near Wadh led to his arrest and subsequent death in captivity. This event ignited a sense of disillusionment among the Baloch, a sentiment that Marri carried throughout his life.
Challenges to Autonomy and Baloch Insurgency: Marri's frustrations with the Pakistani establishment escalated during the 1960s when his fruit orchards were destroyed on the orders of then military ruler General Ayub Khan. In 1970, following the abolition of the infamous One Unit system, Marri contested and won elections for the National Assembly, representing the newly formed province of Balochistan.
Marri's refusal to sign the 1973 constitution was driven by his concerns over the lack of provisions for provincial autonomy. He expressed skepticism regarding Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto's assurances that the concurrent list, which granted concurrent powers to the federal and provincial governments, would be reviewed after a decade. His reservations were ultimately vindicated in 2010 with the passage of the 18th Amendment, which addressed some of the concerns related to provincial autonomy.
Baloch Insurgency and Exile: Marri played a pivotal role in the Baloch insurgency that rocked Pakistan in 1973. Thousands of Baloch, including members of the Marri clan, fought against the Pakistan Army, challenging the central government's authority. However, by 1977, the insurgency began to wane.
The National Awami Party (NAP), to which Marri was affiliated, faced a severe setback when it was banned in 1975. Marri's subsequent exile in the United Kingdom and France was marked by continued activism and efforts to gather support for Baloch separatism. Eventually, he settled in Afghanistan, where he called upon his tribesmen to join him.
Return and Legacy: Marri returned to Pakistan in the early 1990s as the Soviet-backed Afghan regime of President Najeebullah collapsed. He maintained a low profile but remained committed to the cause of Baloch separatism. In the early 2000s, Marri faced a brief period of arrest in the Justice Nawaz Marri case. Despite his declining health, he continued to make controversial statements, solidifying his reputation as an unwavering Baloch nationalist.
Marri's enigmatic persona intrigued both friends and foes. He was viewed as an arrogant Baloch chieftain by some and a soft-spoken gentleman by others. His allegiance to the National Awami Party demonstrated his belief in a federal system, but his commitment to Baloch nationalism never wavered.
Nawab Khair Bakhsh Marri, born into a prominent Baloch family, played a pivotal role in Balochistan's political landscape. From his early activism against the mistreatment of Sardar Nauroz Khan to his leadership during the Baloch insurgency, Marri remained steadfast in his pursuit of a separate Baloch homeland. While his refusal to sign the 1973 constitution and subsequent skepticism proved prescient, Marri's controversial statements and unyielding commitment ensured that he remained a prominent figure in the Baloch nationalist movement.
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