Media Talk in Chakwal
According to Express News, Jamiat Ulema‑e‑Islam Pakistan chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman has declared the current government a product of a “fake mandate,” questioning who truly holds power and why Pakistan Tehreek‑e‑Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan remains behind bars. Speaking to media in Chakwal, he said the government lacks genuine legitimacy and is operating under an artificial majority.
Criticism of Coalition Setup
Fazlur Rehman argued that despite claims of majority, the government is essentially run by the Pakistan Muslim League‑Nawaz (PML‑N), while the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) merely provides support. He described the arrangement as not a “fake majority” but a “fake minority government.”
Constitutional Concerns
The JUI‑F chief warned that legislation against the Constitution amounts to rebellion, which automatically nullifies any mandate. He stressed the need for mutual consultation among political forces to develop a unified stance on constitutional matters.
28th Amendment and New Provinces
Commenting on debates around the 28th Amendment and proposals for new provinces, Fazlur Rehman said there is a difference between principle and practice. He recalled opposing the FATA merger into Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, warning of its consequences, but claimed the establishment ignored those concerns. Today, he noted, even those who supported the merger admit it was a mistake.
Security and State Authority
He questioned whether conditions are suitable for further provincial divisions, warning that such steps could harm national unity. Referring to FATA, he said the merger was imposed by force, and now armed groups have taken control of the region, eroding the writ of the state.
Policy Failures
Fazlur Rehman declared that in 75–78 years, Pakistan’s Afghan policy and counter‑terrorism strategies have failed to deliver positive results. He insisted that politicians should make decisions, while force should only be applied after political consensus.
Upcoming Ulema Conference
The JUI‑F leader highlighted flaws in prosecution and other institutions, calling for collective opinion. He announced that on 22 December, a conference of religious scholars will present a clear stance on these issues.
Imran Khan’s Detention
Fazlur Rehman criticized restrictions on meeting PTI founder Imran Khan, calling it regrettable in a democratic country. He questioned the basis of Khan’s arrest, stating he does not support political detentions or bans on meetings.
Question of Real Authority
He reiterated that the fundamental question remains: who truly governs Pakistan and who makes the real decisions? According to him, citizens are living under decisions imposed by unseen powers.
Remarks on Army Chief
Fazlur Rehman also referred to the Army Chief’s recent address to a gathering of scholars, saying that with his new status and future role, the speech should be taken with a positive outlook.