The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) has appointed Rehman Gul, also known as Mureed, as its new leader. The transition was formalised on Saturday following a decision by the organisation’s Senior Command Council, as reported by The Balochistan Post.
Gul, who previously served as a captain in the Pakistan Army, reportedly participated in military operations against the Pakistani Taliban in Waziristan during his time in service. He left the military approximately 16 years ago and has now ascended to the head of the armed movement challenging the state of Pakistan.
The appointment follows the departure of Bashir Zeb Baloch, who stepped down as the BLA's commander-in-chief. According to BLA spokesperson Jeeyand Baloch, the decision to name Gul was reached unanimously by the Senior Command Council after internal consultations. The organization confirmed that the change in leadership received full support from its top commanders.
Prior to this appointment, Gul held roles within the Senior Command Council and served as the leader of the Mujeed Brigade. The BLA stated that the leadership transition adheres to principles established during the group's 2018 restructuring, which sought to eliminate hereditary leadership and prevent any individual from holding the commander-in-chief position for life.
Key facts
- Rehman Gul is a former captain in the Pakistan Army who served in Waziristan.
- The transition occurred following the resignation of Bashir Zeb Baloch.
- The appointment was finalized by the BLA's Senior Command Council.
- Gul previously commanded the organization's Mujeed Brigade.
- The BLA described the leadership change as a peaceful and constitutional transfer.
Why it matters
The BLA stated that its campaign for national liberation is expected to continue with renewed intensity under the new leadership of Rehman Gul. The organization characterized the transition as a process that avoided internal conflict or fragmentation.
Background
Bashir Zeb Baloch, the outgoing commander, had assumed leadership after his predecessor, Aslam Baloch, was killed in a suicide attack in December 2018.
Source: Hindustan Times
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