Maulana Fazlur Rehman, the chief of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI-F), made a resolute declaration on Wednesday, rejecting the outcomes of the February 8 elections and rallying his supporters for peaceful demonstrations throughout the nation.
Expressing deep concerns over the state of democracy, Maulana Fazlur Rehman lamented the perceived decline of Parliament’s significance, suggesting that decisions may now be dictated by street movements rather than through parliamentary processes.
Dismissing the Election Commission of Pakistan’s (ECP) assertion of free and fair polls, the JUI-F leader condemned the unprecedented level of rigging observed during the elections.
In response to an offer from Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) to join the government coalition, Maulana Fazlur Rehman opted to maintain his party’s stance in the opposition while extending an invitation for collaboration.
Addressing inquiries about the JUI-F’s parliamentary role, Maulana Fazlur Rehman affirmed their participation in assemblies but indicated reservations.
Asserting the need for an assembly truly reflective of the people’s will, free from external influence, Maulana Fazlur Rehman criticized interference from the establishment.
Accusing his party of defeat due to unprecedented electoral malpractice, Maulana Fazlur Rehman highlighted their efforts to foster international relations, particularly with Afghanistan and in denouncing Israeli actions in Gaza, which may have garnered disfavor from the US.
Concluding with a pointed remark on election fairness, Maulana Fazlur Rehman hinted at discrepancies between the perceived electoral integrity and earlier statements from the military establishment.
