THE JUI(F), which played a moderating role during the crisis triggered by the plan of the Government to introduce the 26th amendment in the Constitution, has clarified its position on important issues, indicating it would continue to contribute towards political stability. Its leader Maulana Fazlur Rehman told media in Chiniot on Friday that pitting one province against another or invading the federation reflects a non-political mindset. He ruled out the possibility of joining the Government, adding he was not aware of any such proposal.
It is a foregone conclusion that the Government was able to get the 26th amendment passed by the parliament with the active support of the JUI(F) and with this in view there have been speculations about the party joining the coalition Government. Earlier too, the party rejected media reports that it supported the amendment as a result of a behind-the-scenes deal under which the party would get some lucrative offices. No one would disagree that the Maulana’s role and contribution helped avert a grave political and Constitutional crisis in the country as some circles also claimed the deadlock could have derailed the entire system. As pointed out by the JUI(F) leader, original 56 clauses of the 26th amendment have been reduced to 22 as a result of intensive negotiations that the party held with the leadership of the ruling alliance as well as PTI. One also must appreciate Maulana Fazlur Rehman for sensitizing political parties and leaders about the dangers involved in politics of confrontation. The country will surely move ahead with confidence if all parties demonstrate the sensibility shown by Maulana Fazlur Rehman who termed the tenure of Qazi Faez Isa as productive and wished success to the new Chief Justice in delivering justice to the nation.
