Fazl reiterates call for fresh elections

Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman on Saturday reiterated his demand for fresh elections, labeling the current assembly as "unconstitutional and illegitimate", while emphasizing that his party would remain in opposition.

He visited Mufti Mehmood Markaz in Joharabad, Khushab and met the party workers and supporters.

Addressing the media, Rehman dismissed the legitimacy of the current government, calling it "unconstitutional" and stressed that they would remain in opposition and play their "constructive role"

"The government is running against the tide. We do not recognize this unconstitutional assembly. The current assembly is illegitimate and we demand [fresh] elections."

On the 26th Constitutional Amendment, Fazl stated that JUI-F engaged in discussions as the opposition and did not, in any way, become part of the government. "Thank God, our party gained substantial strength during the 26th Constitutional Amendment."

In apparent reference to the release of PTI founder's wife and sisters, Fazl said he would not comment on the "relief" extended to the PTI, adding that the former ruling party should learn a lesson from the JUI-F's decision to stay in opposition.

About the speculation on a potential 27th amendment, Fazl clarified that while JUI-F has not yet reviewed it, any attempt to reintroduce the provisions rejected in the 26th Amendment would be met with strong resistance.

"We will vigorously oppose any effort to reintroduce the content removed from the original draft of the 26th Amendment through a new amendment."

Commenting on political farsightedness, he added, "Politics requires a strategic approach; those driven solely by emotions often fail".