In a recent statement, Maulana Fazlur Rehman, the head of the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam party, condemned the violent incidents that occurred in Islamabad, emphasizing that politics based on bloodshed cannot continue in Pakistan. He expressed that if the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party remains in contact with him, he can play a role in facilitating discussions.
Speaking to the media in Larkana, Maulana Fazlur Rehman linked the current situation to the February 8 elections, stressing that the institutions of Pakistan should stay away from the electoral process to bring peace to the public. He questioned how the PTI managed to reach D-Chowk despite heavy security, asking whether they were allowed to proceed or if their path had been cleared for bloodshed.
He further stated that dialogue and negotiation are key to resolving such issues, and that any forceful actions on either side lead to anarchy. “We are one nation, and all matters should be resolved by consensus,” he added.
Maulana Fazlur Rehman also advocated for the PTI to be allowed to hold rallies, asserting that serious and fact-based measures are needed for the betterment of the country. He warned that without serious actions, the situation in the country could spiral out of control.
Regarding constitutional matters, he mentioned the 26th Amendment, highlighting that PTI had been involved in the discussions and consultations regarding the amendment, and could play a role in facilitating talks between the party and the establishment.
He pointed out that there is currently no functioning government in Pakistan, including in Balochistan, and emphasized the need for serious governance. He also noted the unrest in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, blaming the governments of both provinces for their lack of seriousness.
Maulana Fazlur Rehman stressed that political workers, regardless of affiliation, are a loss to the nation, whether they lose their lives or are affected in other ways. He also criticized the external statements by PTI, suggesting that they harm the country and create an impression of foreign interference.
Addressing the issue of religious seminaries, he pointed out that during the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) government, the draft on religious schools had been the result of long consultations between Zardari, Bilawal, and Nawaz Sharif. He expressed his intention to soon discuss the matter in detail.
On the Kachhi Canal project, Maulana Fazlur Rehman emphasized the need for national unity, stating that all such issues should be addressed through consultation with the provinces. He reiterated that no province should be forced into protest, and if PTI remains in contact, he could play a role in resolving issues. However, he lamented that PTI does not maintain consistent communication.
He concluded by reflecting on past political movements, mentioning that during PDM’s protests and the Freedom March, over 1.5 million people had gathered in Islamabad without any incidents. He emphasized that a good leader guides the people through struggle without resorting to violence.