Fazlur Rehman Criticizes Lack of Consultation on PTI Talks

KARACHI: Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman has voiced strong concerns over the government’s approach to resolving national issues, emphasizing the need for transparency and a collective strategy.

Speaking at a press conference in Karachi on Saturday, Fazlur Rehman stressed that improving economic indicators alone would not bring relief to the common man. He underlined that for real change, the state of the economy must be openly shared with the public, and efforts to boost the economy should directly benefit ordinary citizens.

Fazl also criticized the lack of consultation with his party during the ongoing talks between the government and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). “We were not taken into confidence regarding the discussions with PTI,” he said, expressing frustration over JUI-F’s exclusion from the talks. He raised additional concerns about election irregularities, particularly in Balochistan, where he claimed that only 2% of votes in some constituencies were valid. He called for urgent electoral reforms, stating, “A person who did not win even from a single polling station was declared the winner.”

Addressing the issue of madrassa reforms, Fazlur Rehman acknowledged that progress had been made, including the enactment of a law for madrassa registration and relief through a presidential ordinance. However, he expressed concern about the government’s intentions, accusing it of attempting to place some madrassas under its control. He reiterated that while reforms were necessary, a national consensus was critical to ensure fairness and cooperation.

The JUI-F leader also discussed issues of water distribution, stressing that critical matters, like drawing canals from the Indus River, should be resolved through dialogue and mutual agreement. He warned against political compromises on democracy, the Constitution, and principles, citing that even under martial law, governments had completed their terms.

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Fazlur Rehman concluded his remarks by calling for inclusive policymaking and transparency, stating, “National issues cannot be resolved unilaterally; collective efforts are necessary to pave the way for progress.” His comments reflect a commitment to collaboration and a call for broad-based solutions to the country’s pressing challenges.