Nawaz's charm offensive at Maulana falls short

ISLAMABAD:

In a bid to placate the former ally, former premier Nawaz Sharif on Friday engaged in talks with JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman, with the PML-N clinging to a glimmer of hope even as the religio-political party stood firm on its decision to remain outside the government.

Nawaz had a rendezvous with the Maulana at the latter's residence in Islamabad to sway the former ally back into the folds of the coalition poised to take the lead at the Centre once again.

Sources revealed that the meeting took place in two segments, initially involving a private one-on-one tête-à-tête lasting approximately half an hour. Subsequently, both Nawaz and Fazl joined the room where delegations from both the parties were seated.

Accompanying Nawaz were PML-N leaders Ahsan Iqbal, Ishaq Dar, Rana Sanaullah and Khawaja Saad Rafique.

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JUI-F representatives Maulana Ghafoor Haideri, K-P Governor Ghulam Ali, and Noor Alam Khan were also present during the discussions.

The JUI-F, adamant about assuming an opposition role, continues to contest the results of the Feb 8 elections, alleging rigging.

However, Fazl, in turn, briefed Nawaz about his grievances regarding the alleged election rigging.

Despite conflicting stances, the leaders asserted that Nawaz managed to sway Fazl to a considerable extent.

The huddle came ahead of Sunday’s decisive moment for the much-coveted position of the prime minister as the odds are in favour of Nawaz’s younger brother, former premier Shehbaz Sharif. With a solid grip on sufficient votes, the party appears comfortably positioned to secure his election as the nation's top executive.

‘JUI-F firm on its decision’

Addressing the media afterwards, Haideri expressed that both leaders appeared content after the meeting. He confirmed progress in discussions but reiterated the JUI-F's firm decision to stay out of the government.

He announced upcoming general council meetings for Punjab on March 7 and Sindh on March 3.

The central general council meeting will convene post-Ramazan to formalise the party's decisions.

"Our stance remains that we will not be part of the government; nevertheless, the meeting was conducted in a positive atmosphere,” he added.

Sanaullah, part of the PML-N delegation, and speaker to the media, said that the meeting was productive, covering various national issues.

He underscored Fazl’s leadership and the collective effort to keep him within the alliance.

"In a one-on-one meeting, a conclusion must have been reached for the betterment of Pakistan," he said. “I’ve already stated that Maulana is our leader and we’ve faced tough situations together. We have always received guidance from him and we wish for that process to continue.”

He expressed optimism for positive developments in the country's favour.

He clarified that Nawaz’s intention was not to seek votes but to discuss the prevailing political situation.

He emphasised Fazl’s importance and reassured that the PML-N valued the alliance with him.

Speaking on the occasion, Rafique said that there was hope for the good, “God willing, things will improve in favour of the country”.

“Have faith in Allah... [you will receive] good news,” he said.