QUETTA: In a significant step towards transparent governance and merit-based hiring, the Balochistan Finance Department has conducted, for the first time, a fully digital and transparent online recruitment test to fill 111 vacant posts of Sub-Accountant (Grade-14), marking a milestone in the province’s administrative history.
Under this unprecedented initiative, candidates appeared in an online test, results were announced on the same day, and appointment letters were issued immediately to successful applicants. The process demonstrated speed, transparency, and efficiency rarely seen in public-sector recruitment in the province.
Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti had categorically stated in his first address to the provincial assembly after assuming office that government jobs would no longer be sold and that youth employment would not be turned into a bargaining tool. The successful completion of this recruitment exercise is being seen as a practical fulfillment of that pledge.
Officials said the newly introduced digital system effectively eliminated avenues for favoritism, nepotism, and political or bureaucratic interference. Online testing, real-time monitoring, and same-day results ensured that candidates advanced solely on the basis of merit, competence, and performance.
The chief minister has repeatedly maintained that safeguarding the future of the youth is the government’s top priority and that reforms in recruitment will continue under the principles of merit, transparency, and the rule of law. Observers say the initiative has helped restore public confidence in a system long criticised for irregularities.
For decades, Balochistan has faced allegations of jobs being obtained through money or influence, largely due to the high value placed on government employment in the province. This culture eroded merit and hard work and contributed to frustration and alienation among educated youth. Despite changes in political leadership over the years, no sustained effort was made to dismantle this system.
After assuming office, Chief Minister Bugti inherited the long-standing issue of recruitment controversies. Despite pressure, he moved towards introducing transparent mechanisms, particularly for contract-based hiring, laying the groundwork for broader reforms.
Given the province’s complex administrative challenges, the Finance Department, under Finance Secretary Imran Zarkoon, an Oxford University graduate, designed a recruitment system with minimal room for manipulation. An online portal was developed to provide real-time access to candidates’ data and ensure transparent monitoring throughout the process.
On January 17, 2026, more than 5,900 candidates from across Balochistan appeared for the online test at the Balochistan University of Information Technology, Engineering and Management Sciences (BUITEMS). The test began at 9am. While minor technical issues emerged initially, they were promptly addressed by the technical team.
Authorities said attempts at impersonation were detected and foiled. Journalists and civil society representatives were allowed to observe the process independently. By evening, the testing concluded, followed by the announcement of results and issuance of appointment orders.
Analysts describe the initiative as a modest but historic step towards institutional reform. If extended across all government departments, they say, the system could significantly improve service delivery and help address Balochistan’s long-standing governance and development challenges.
