The post was established on 1 July 1970, after the dissolution of West Pakistan province and the end of One Unit.

Under Pakistan's current parliamentary system, the governorship is a ceremonial position, as a symbol of the federation.

The governor is appointed by the centre, whereas the principal head of the provincial government remains the elected Chief Minister of Balochistan.

Bhutto imposed governor's rule under Akbar Bugti, and military operations against tribal insurgents commenced in 1973.

After the Bhutto regime was overthrown in a military coup by General Zia-ul-Haq in 1977, the NAP leaders were released and the Chief Justice of the Balochistan High Court, Khuda Bakhsh Marri, became governor; the other chief justices also became governors of their corresponding provinces.

Governor's rule returned under military ruler Pervez Musharraf, who dissolved the provincial government in 1999, and for a brief period under the fourth PPP ministry in 2013, culminating in the dismissal of the provincial government under Aslam Raisani amid rising sectarian violence.

He can also impose governor rule on the Province after advice from the President and Federal Cabinet but in emergency situations.

It was heavily damaged during the 1935 Quetta earthquake, but was repaired by the Viceroy of India, Lord Willingdon.

Although there was no elected legislature the Chief Commissioner could consult the Shahi Jirga, an assembly of tribal leaders.