Fazlur Rehman warns of instability if constitution is ignored

JUI-F chief says int'l community hesitant to engage in business; friendly nations worried about country's economy

Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman has cautioned that failure to adhere to the constitution will lead to ongoing instability and unrest in the country.

Speaking at an event in Karachi on Sunday, Rehman asserted that the recent elections were marred by fraud and characterised the current assembly as a product of the establishment. He urged for necessary reforms but stressed that these changes should not reflect specific political interests to the public.

He stated, "When you propose a good idea but people perceive it as serving your political interests, how can the parliament and the government regain their credibility?" He pointed out that the average citizen is aware of the daily changes and cannot be deceived by rhetoric.

Rehman expressed concern over the lack of political stability in Pakistan, noting that the international community is hesitant to engage in business with the country. He mentioned that friendly nations are worried about the Pakistani economy and are anxious about how to assist.

He highlighted that neither the constitution, parliament, nor legal institutions are secure, as various institutions are interfering in each other’s affairs, all striving for their own stability. While he acknowledged that changes occur over time, he stressed that they should not be driven by political interests.

Rehman called for institutions to operate within their defined boundaries and strengthen themselves, stating that he wishes to see a robust parliament, judiciary, and military. He reaffirmed that the Constitution is the social contract that unites the nation.