PESHAWAR: Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI-F) ameer Maulana Fazl-ur-Rehman today held a significant press conference in Peshawar, addressing the political landscape of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and reiterating his stance on the FATA merger.
Maulana Fazl-ur-Rehman stated unequivocally that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa cannot afford any further political turmoil. He suggested that if a change in the provincial government is to occur, it should originate from within the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) itself.
FATA Merger: A ‘Wrong Decision’
On the contentious issue of the FATA merger, Maulana Fazl-ur-Rehman reiterated his long-held view, labeling it a “wrong decision” that all political parties should acknowledge. He announced that a grand jirga of tribal elders would convene again tomorrow for further consultations. He emphasized that JUI-F has always sought decisions based on the advice of FATA’s elders, asserting that the merger was not the ultimate goal but rather the political future of the tribes. He recalled rejecting the merger proposal previously, advocating instead for empowering the tribes, and stressed that consultation with tribal elders remains “indispensable” concerning FATA.
Concerns Over Committee Composition and Development
The JUI-F ameer revealed that the committee formed for FATA affairs had requested nominations from JUI-F, acknowledging them as a party to the issue. However, he questioned the representation of Pashtuns and provincial members within the committee. He lamented that the province’s funds are seemingly being used solely for privileges, pointing out that after eight years, not a single patwari (land record official) has been deployed to FATA.
Public Welfare and Purpose of Movements
Expressing deep concern over injustices faced by children in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, Maulana Fazl-ur-Rehman stated he considers them his own children. He highlighted his party’s history of public mobilization, asserting that no other party has organized “million marches” more than JUI-F. He explained that the Peshawar Million March was aimed at boosting public morale, adding that while politicians go to jail, movements are not merely for their release but for “great objectives.”
Addressing his party’s relationships with other political entities, Maulana Fazl-ur-Rehman clarified that despite differences with the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), and Awami National Party (ANP), there is no enmity. He also denied any inherent animosity with PTI, though he acknowledged a “bitter past” between the two parties. He concluded by stating that if the opposition contacts him regarding the law and order situation, he would certainly engage in discussions.
