'Strings pulled by others,' JUI-F chief questions govt's sovereignty

Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman launched a scathing critique of the government on Saturday, stating that while some may appear to be in control, the real power lies elsewhere.

Addressing a traders' convention in Peshawar, Fazlur Rehman expressed concerns over the fragile economic situation in Pakistan, asserting that the country’s governance and sovereignty are being undermined.

"The front row is occupied by others, but the strings are pulled by someone else," Fazlur Rehman remarked, highlighting what he perceives as a lack of genuine control by the current leadership. He emphasised that Pakistan's economic foundation is crumbling, and it’s beyond the capacity of the current rulers to salvage it.

Fazl pointed to the deteriorating law and order situation and questioned whether the ideals for which Pakistan was created are being upheld. "Our homeland lacks both peace and economic stability," he said, attributing these challenges to the country’s collective deviation from Islamic principles. He stressed that the disobedience of divine commands has led to the nation's current plight.

Criticising the legitimacy of the current assemblies, he claimed that the representatives sitting in the parliament are not genuine. He also condemned the imposition of oppressive taxes and the government's failure to use public funds effectively, stating, "People know that their taxes are being used to repay loans. First, take the nation into confidence that their money will be spent on them."

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Fazl also questioned the involvement of foreign technocrats in Pakistan’s economic management, noting that even the finance ministers are not local. "Our rulers have made arrangements abroad to flee when the situation worsens," he added, criticising the lack of long-term commitment to the country’s welfare.

He expressed dismay over the government’s agricultural policies, noting that despite the country having ample wheat, it was imported from abroad. "When we had wheat in the country, why was it imported?" he questioned.

The JUI-F chief also touched on international relations, expressing concern over Pakistan's diminishing autonomy. He pointed out that the conflict between major powers like the US, Russia, and China has put Pakistan in a precarious position, particularly as China emerges as a significant economic force.

He concluded by addressing the issue of Israel and Palestine, reiterating Pakistan’s stance on not recognising Israel and supporting the Palestinian cause. "The issue is not about recognising Israel but recognising Palestine. The occupation is in Palestine, and we must work to free it," he said, recalling the words of Pakistan's founder, who called Israel the "illegitimate child of the West."