Islamabad: In response to the recent remarks made by Chief Minister Balochistan Sarfraz Bugti during a rally in Hub, Federal Minister for Commerce and former Chief Minister Balochistan, Jam Kamal Khan, addressed the claims and clarified the contributions of the Jam family to the development of Hub and Lasbela. Chief Minister Bugti had stated in his speech that while many chief ministers had come and gone, no significant work was done in the region. Addressing this, Jam Kamal Khan emphasized the importance of setting the record straight and highlighted several key initiatives undertaken by the Jam family that have significantly benefited the region. He said, “The Jam family has never held a provincial seat in Hub, as most provincial projects are typically handled by MPAs. However, Alhamdulillah, whenever our family had the opportunity to serve, we did so with dedication and left a lasting impact.”
According to a statement by Press Information Department, Jam Kamal Khan pointed out that the industrial zone of Hub was originally the personal property of the Jam family. Highlighting their contributions, he listed several major projects including the establishment of Hub Dam, creation of Hub Industrial Zone, and the establishment of a Technical Training Center to enhance youth skills and promote employment opportunities.
Other significant projects included the Jam Ghulam Qadir Hospital, Attock Cement Plant, and the Sakran Bypass Construction and Expansion. The Hub Power Project and BOSICOR Oil Refinery were also noted as key industrial milestones, along with the development of the shipbreaking industry and Marble City.
The Jam family also implemented a comprehensive water and sewerage system in Hub, and developed infrastructure projects like the Hub Bypass and Sakran Road. Sports facilities, including the Jam Ghulam Qadir Cricket Stadium and a floodlit football stadium, were also established to promote local sports.
Jam Kamal Khan stated that if subsequent governments or representatives failed to maintain or improve these projects, the blame could not be placed on the Jam family. He noted that while CM Sarfraz Bugti is a respectable figure, he seemed to have overlooked or forgotten the contributions made by the Jam family.
He added that it is commendable Bugti visited Lasbela and Hub and pledged improvements, emphasizing that every government should aim for progress. Jam Kamal Khan reiterated the deep political, geographical, and tribal connection to the region.
Jam Kamal reminded everyone that Hub, Lasbela, and Ormara were once part of the state of Lasbela, integrated into Pakistan by his ancestor Jam Ghulam Qadir. The Jam family also provided state resources and personal properties for administrative and development purposes during and after the integration.
He emphasized the importance of reflecting on history, urging leaders to acknowledge past efforts when making statements. “We have served Balochistan and Pakistan and will continue to do so, Insha’Allah. However, I hope that those in positions of authority will also look back at the past before commenting,” he concluded.