Maulana Fazlur Rehman alleges pressure on party members over constitutional amendment draft

Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) Chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman has firmly rejected the government’s initial draft for a proposed constitutional amendment, stating, “We reject it today as well.” 

He made these remarks during a joint press conference with the leadership of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan confirmed that agreements have been reached on various points between him and the JUI-F chief. 

Rehman highlighted that discussions and consultations on the matter have been ongoing for the past three weeks. He alleged that members of his party are facing pressure and attempts are being made to buy their loyalty.

During the press conference, Rehman stated that extensive negotiations have been held with the government regarding the constitutional amendment, and representatives from both sides have met multiple times.

“We have rejected the government's first draft and stand by that decision. If we are to progress through understanding, we welcome that,” he added. While some agreements have been reached, contentious topics remain under discussion, he maintained.

He noted that he had recently engaged in lengthy discussions with Pakistan Peoples Party Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and, just the day before, had a four-hour conversation with Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz President Nawaz Sharif regarding the issues at hand.

Rehman stressed that PTI, as a significant opposition party, cannot be overlooked. He praised the party’s positive stance on the constitutional amendment and acknowledged its openness to constructive dialogue. He also stressed that representation from political parties, bar councils, and the Pakistan Bar Council should be included in the amendment process.

However, he raised concerns about the government’s perceived lack of seriousness towards their conciliatory approach, alleging harassment and abduction of JUI-F members. 

“One of our members was abducted while others have received threats or offers of substantial bribes,” he revealed. He also mentioned that a member of Akhtar Mengal's party faced a similar situation.

Rehman warned that if the government does not cease its intimidating tactics by morning, they will adopt a stringent stance in response. “Our sincerity and seriousness are being mocked. We have issued notices to our members under Article 63(A), mandating adherence to party policy,” he said.

He further stated, “If the government continues its coercive tactics to pass a contentious amendment, we will declare that this nominated parliament does not need to undertake significant constitutional legislation. In that case, we will not participate in any parliamentary proceedings.”

Barrister Gohar expressed that they had approached discussions with an open mind and had committed to collaboration from the outset. 

He reiterated concerns regarding the abduction and harassment of their assembly members. “Despite these issues, we have participated in every meeting to ensure the draft is presented before us,” he added.

He voiced serious reservations about the government’s behaviour, stating, “We have been part of this process alongside Maulana. However, if harassment of our members continues, the utility of legislation comes into question. If the government intends to pass laws unilaterally, we will withdraw from the process.”

He warned that if the government’s approach does not change, progress on the constitutional amendment would not be possible.