Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) Chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman Monday stirred controversy by raising doubts on timely general elections, which are slated to be held on February 8 as per the Election Commission of Pakistan.
Addressing a presser in Dera Ismail Khan, Maulana Fazlur Rehman began by drawing attention to the controversy surrounding the rejection of nomination papers, not only of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) but also of Akhtar Mengal.
He questioned the fairness of the process, setting the tone for a critical evaluation of the election dynamics.
The JUI-F Chief then addressed a recent attack on his convoy, emphasising that he was at home during the incident. Highlighting the insecurity indicated by such events, he raised questions about the prevailing law and order situation and its impact on conducting free and fair elections.
Expressing the party's desire to participate in the electoral process, Maulana Fazlur Rehman stated, "We want to go to the election, but there should be an environment for it."
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He pointed out the challenges of conducting an election campaign amidst security threats, suggesting a possible delay in the election timeline if the situation does not improve.
Concerns were further heightened as Maulana Fazlur Rehman recounted attacks on JUI-F leadership in Waziristan and Tank. He urged the Election Commission to consider the party's request, emphasising that peace and order are compromised in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan.
Looking beyond national borders, the JUI-F Chief hinted at a potential visit to Afghanistan in the coming week. He stressed the mutual need for stability between Afghanistan and Pakistan, expressing a commitment to mend the trust between the two nations and the international community.
Touching on economic issues, Maulana Fazlur Rehman criticized the re-emergence of electricity load shedding after the claimed end during the party's previous tenure. He lamented the economic collapse over the past four years, warning of the country's trajectory toward bankruptcy.
Amidst the political uncertainties, the JUI-F Chief concluded, "Seat adjustment will be based on need, no such situation is under consideration right now," emphasizing the pressing need for stability and confidence restoration in the nation.
