Alleges pressure on party members, threatens to adopt a stringent stance
Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) Chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman has firmly rejected the government’s initial draft for a proposed constitutional amendment, stating, “We reject it today as well.”
He made these remarks during a joint press conference with the leadership of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan confirmed that agreements have been reached on various points between him and the JUI-F chief.
Fazl highlighted that discussions and consultations on the matter have been ongoing for the past three weeks. He alleged that members of his party are facing pressure and attempts are being made to buy their loyalty.
During the press conference, he stated that extensive negotiations have been held with the government regarding the constitutional amendment, and representatives from both sides have met multiple times.
“We have rejected the government’s first draft and stand by that decision. If we are to progress through understanding, we welcome that,” he added. While some agreements have been reached, contentious topics remain under discussion, he maintained.
He noted that he had recently engaged in lengthy discussions with Pakistan Peoples Party Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and, just the day before, had a four-hour conversation with Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz President Nawaz Sharif on the issues.
Fazl stressed that PTI, as a significant opposition party, cannot be overlooked. He praised the party’s positive stance on the constitutional amendment and acknowledged its openness to constructive dialogue. He also stressed that representation from political parties, bar councils, and the Pakistan Bar Council should be included in the amendment process.
However, he raised concerns about the government’s perceived lack of seriousness towards their conciliatory approach, alleging harassment and abduction of JUI-F members.
“One of our members was abducted while others have received threats or offers of substantial bribes,” he revealed. He also mentioned that a member of Akhtar Mengal’s party faced a similar situation.
He warned that if the government does not cease its intimidating tactics by morning, they will adopt a stringent stance in response. “Our sincerity and seriousness are being mocked. We have issued notices to our members under Article 63(A), mandating adherence to party policy,” he said.
