Fazlur Rehman condemns violence in Islamabad, offers mediation role with PTI

The head of the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI-F), Maulana Fazlur Rehman, condemned the recent violent incidents in Islamabad and expressed his willingness to mediate with the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party if they maintain communication. 

Speaking to the media in Larkana on Wednesday, Rehman stressed the importance of consensus in national matters, particularly the Kachi Canal project, stating that such issues should be addressed through mutual agreement and consultation with all provinces.

Rehman reiterated his party’s stance on provincial autonomy, underscoring that his party has always advocated for it from the very beginning. He also noted that actions on significant matters must be carried out in consultation with provincial governments, and no province should be forced into protests.

He further highlighted the need for continuous dialogue with PTI, stating that while he is willing to play a mediating role, the party has not remained consistently in contact. 

Rehman added that he was not referring to the leadership of PTI but rather to the party's workers, who are generally committed to their cause. According to him, a good leader can guide their followers in the right direction and temper their enthusiasm without resorting to violence.

Reflecting on past political movements, Rehman recalled that during the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) protests, including the Azadi March, more than 1.5 million people gathered in Islamabad without any violent incidents. He stressed that it is essential to show the workers the path of struggle without inciting violence.

Addressing the prevailing instability in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, Rehman criticised the provincial governments for their lack of seriousness in dealing with the situation, which has led to unrest in both provinces. 

He warned that if the government remains fixated on incarcerating political leaders and creating a cycle of releasing and re-arresting them, the country could descend into anarchy.

He also raised questions about the PTI’s intentions following their announcement to march toward D-Chowk, which prompted the government to impose strict security measures. Despite these efforts, PTI successfully reached Islamabad, where violence erupted, which Rehman firmly condemned.

In response to a question regarding the religious seminaries draft discussed during the PDM era, Rehman pointed out that the proposal had been developed after extensive consultations with key political figures, including Asif Ali Zardari, Bilawal Bhutto, and Nawaz Sharif.

He expressed concern over the current objections to the draft and promised to discuss the issue more openly in the near future.

Finally, Rehman noted that the current political turmoil is a direct result of the February 8 elections and reiterated his earlier advice to PTI not to support the 26th Constitutional Amendment.