Fazl says democracy facing a crisis

Cleric-politician decries 'lack of religious expertise among lawmakers'

PESHAWAR:

Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazal (JUI-F) leader Maulana Fazlur Rehman has expressed concerns that Pakistan's democracy and parliamentary politics were being questioned from all corners.

Speaking at an event in Peshawar on Monday, the cleric-politician noted that while many doubts are being raised about the state of democracy and parliamentary politics in the country, his party remained steadfast in its ideological commitments.

"JUI-F is a movement driven by ideology. While adapting to changing circumstances, the party has never compromised on the beliefs and principles of its forefathers," he asserted.

He further said that the vision to turn Pakistan into an Islamic state was a key component of the party's parliamentary agenda. "Our struggle for Islam continues and will continue," he added.

He said that political leadership from all schools of thought has played a key role in fostering religious harmony, and that constitutional provisions and laws should align with Islamic principles as prescribed by the Quran and Sunnah.

The JUI-F chief further criticised the lack of Islamic knowledge among many members of the country's legislative assemblies, adding that 99% of Islamic laws have been implemented in consultation with the Islamic Ideological Council (IIC). He pointed out the presence of sectarian elements in society, which he said could be harmful to national unity.

Commenting on the ongoing conflict in Kurram, he said that a diplomat had mentioned the issue to him, to which he responded that the tribal dispute had been ongoing for 20 to 22 years, "We know how to resolve the Kurram issue," he added.

He stressed the need to avoid misleading society, saying that while efforts were being made to calm tensions, provocations were still being made. "I have been in contact with others, but we have not resorted to violence," he added.