‘Nawaz Sharif can play crucial role in country’s current political scenario,’ Maulana Fazlur Rehman

Jamiat Ulama-e-Islam (F) chief, Maulana Fazlur Rehman, has stated that Nawaz Sharif can play a crucial role in the country’s prevailing political scenario.

While speaking to journalists, the JUI-F leader revealed that the party’s General Council meeting has been convened to discuss government policies and the national situation. He further mentioned that a decision regarding launching a movement would be made after Eid.

Maulana Fazlur Rehman criticized the current government, calling it a “puppet” regime. He said, “The Prime Minister, President, and Interior Minister are not competent. The current rulers did not win the elections; the state is in danger.”

He emphasized that, despite being in the opposition, his party is thinking about the country’s welfare, questioning why the government is not doing the same. He also took a dig at the Prime Minister, stating, “He is inviting people for Iftar but is unwilling to discuss national issues.”

Expressing concern over job cuts, he said, “Employees are being removed from institutions like Postal Services and PWD. If the employees are incompetent, then how is the government competent? Where will the youth go if they are deprived of employment?”

Maulana Fazlur Rehman addded that dacoits in Sindh did not emerge on their own but as a reaction to circumstances. He also remarked that PTI’s real leadership is in jail, while those leading the party outside lack unity. However, he noted that tensions with PTI have eased and dismissed concerns that statements against each other would create rifts in a possible alliance.

“If anyone speaks against me, PTI should take notice,” he said. Referring to Sheikh Waqas Akram, he added, “I have longstanding ties with him and his elders. I haven’t met him in this parliament, but ever since his appearance changed, so has his rhetoric.”

Regarding a possible alliance with PTI in an anti-government movement, Fazlur Rehman said that a policy decision would be made in an upcoming strategic meeting. “The ruling party had pleaded with us to join the government,” he claimed, adding that Nawaz Sharif could play a crucial role in the current political climate. “If Nawaz Sharif believes that governing a single province is enough, then what about the rest of the country?” he questioned.

He also took a jab at Asif Zardari, saying, “Zardari is enjoying himself. He is the only person capable of buying both the provincial assembly and the presidency.” He criticized the state of governance, noting, “If Punjab is calm, it does not mean everything is fine. Two provinces have been left to their fate, but when we take to the streets, they will ask us to think about the country.”

Maulana Fazlur Rehman also raised concerns about the establishment’s role in politics, stating, “What does the Fitna of Khawarij have to do with our politics, government, or religion? They do not fear me; they fear my character. Life is in Allah’s hands—one can die even while sitting at home.” He warned that unilateral decisions would only intensify political tensions, blaming the establishment for the disorder. “Every branch has an owl sitting on it,” he remarked.

Expressing frustration over the establishment’s control, he said, “Unfortunately, the establishment is running the country. They question how politicians can govern, but for God’s sake, step back! Politicians can run the country better than you. Pakistan does not belong to the military; it belongs to all of us.”

Maulana Fazlur Rehman questioned why Pakistan is willing to engage in dialogue with Iran and India but does not adopt the same approach toward Afghanistan.

“If talks can be held with Iran and India, then why not with Afghanistan?” he asked.

The JUI-F chief also condemned the recent attacks on his party leaders, stating that such actions were intended to intimidate them. “We are being threatened by attacks on JUI-F leaders, but we will not be afraid,” he asserted.

Commenting on the current political situation, he highlighted growing public dissatisfaction with the parliamentary system. “The people are frustrated with Parliament. A country cannot function like this,” he remarked.

He further expressed disappointment over the state of affairs, saying, “Our patience is wearing thin. We are not hopeless, but we are angry.”