JUI-F to celebrate constitutional amendment with nationwide 'Youm-e-Tashakur' on Friday

Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI-F) will observe a 'Youm-e-Tashakur' across the country on Friday, following orders from party chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman, according to a statement by party spokesperson Aslam Ghauri on Thursday.

Ghauri stated that the nation should offer prayers of thanks to Allah for the increased protection of Islamic provisions in the constitution. "Special prayers and supplications will be held in mosques and madrassas," he said.

Imams and religious scholars will also use the occasion to educate the public on the prohibition of interest and highlight JUI-F's role in defending both Islam and democracy in the constitution, he added.

JUI-F remains committed to defending Islam and democracy as its core mission, Ghauri emphasised.

In a historic move towards promoting Islamic finance, parliament unanimously passed the 26th Constitutional Amendment, mandating the complete elimination of Riba (interest) by January 1, 2028.

This significant amendment modifies Article 38(f) of the Constitution, marking a key milestone in the country’s efforts to align its financial system with Shariah principles.

The amendment follows the April 28, 2022, Federal Shariat Court judgement, authored by Justice Dr Syed Mohammed Anwer, which set a five-year timeline for the removal of Riba from Pakistan’s financial system.

By incorporating this court decision into the Constitution, Pakistan has taken an unprecedented legislative step, underscoring its dedication to establishing an Islamic banking system.

The newly amended Article 38(f) now reads: “Eliminate Riba completely before the first day of January 2028.” This development is being hailed as a monumental achievement for Islamic finance in the country.