Are You Starting a Movement with PTI? Watch and Wait: Fazlur Rehman
Islamabad (Our Reporter, News Agencies)
A journalist asked Maulana Fazlur Rehman, the pinnacle of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI) if he plans to begin a movement with Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). He responded, “Watch and wait.”
Standing Firm on Principles
Rehman stated, “Our companions changed their principles and joined the government. We are standing firm on our principles and will not surrender. Those who do will have to surrender before the public.” He mentioned that the JUI’s council and executive committee would meet after Eid to devise the next strategy. “We are not resigning from the assemblies. If it’s a war, so be it; we are ready to face the consequences.”
No Contact with Adiala Jail Inmate
In a press conference following the JUI meeting, Rehman, accompanied by central leaders, said, “We have no contact with the inmate in Adiala Jail. We will inform you if there is any progress with PTI.” He expressed concerns about the deteriorating state authority in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, questioning whether the ongoing conflicts were about terrorism or control over mineral resources. Rehman emphasized the need for a strong national defense and military.
Concerns Over Afghanistan
Rehman expressed dismay over efforts regarding Afghanistan being undermined, asking who was responsible for disrupting them. He highlighted the worsening conditions in Chaman and the increasing terrorism. “You want to see parliament and political parties as subservient. They bear more responsibility than us,” he remarked. Rehman pointed out that JUI facilitated open routes with Afghanistan, but now those efforts seem futile, particularly in Chaman.
PTI Ceasefire and New Elections
Rehman mentioned a ceasefire from their side with PTI, stating that they are not reiterating any past statements, but PTI has yet to respond. “Everyone coming out of jail says the founder chairman said this or that. The founder chairperson should escape jail, and something will become clear. In the current situation, there is no solution other than new elections.”
Possibility of a New Alliance
When asked if a new alliance similar to the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) was forming and if they planned to launch a movement with PTI after Eid-ul-Adha, Rehman replied, “They say, ‘See and wait. Wait and see.’ Watch and wait.” When asked, “Who are ‘you’?” he humorously responded, “You are my style of speech; you also know who ‘you’ is.” He reiterated their stance, “From our side, there is a ceasefire for PTI. We are not repeating any past statements, but no one from PTI has come forward so far. Everyone coming out of jail says Mr. Khan said this or that. Either Mr. Khan should come out of jail, and something will become clear. In the current situation, there is no solution other than new elections.”
