'Politicians belong in parliament, not jail'

Fazl demands fair polls, slams institutions' meddling

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LAHORE:

Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman on Wednesday asserted that politicians belong in the political arena, not behind bars, while calling for free and fair elections to restore public trust and ensure stability in the country.

Speaking to the media in Lahore, the JUI-F leader stressed the urgency of rebuilding public confidence.

Throwing weight behind the ongoing dialogue, he said he has always supported talks as cornerstone of politics. "I am unaware of PTI's demands, but my hope is that all issues can be resolved through discussions."

Criticising the actions of political leaders, Fazl said that such politics has rendered parliament ineffective. He called for elections free from rigging, saying, "Institutions want to create governments they can manipulate, but such ambitions are illegitimate."

"We aim for principled and ideological politics, but the establishment remains uninterested in ideology. Their sole focus is on consolidating authority. The Constitution is our national covenant, and any violation undermines its importance."

Fazl urged political parties to avoid compromises that strengthen undemocratic forces. "Politicians' compromises have emboldened the establishment, leaving parliament toothless. If manipulated elections can take place, why can't we hold transparent ones without delay?"

He further lamented the lack of public trust in recent polls, stating, "This is the second election where the public has no confidence. Democracy cannot take root without trust. All institutions must remain within their constitutional boundaries to ensure the relevance and efficacy of parliament."

Lamenting the security situation in tribal areas, Fazl noted that people were forced to silently leave their homes. "Tribal areas, rich in resources, face instability, putting the nation's security at risk. As a responsible state, we cannot let emotions dictate our actions."

On sectarian conflicts in Kurram Agency, he clarified these were property disputes, not sectarian issues, urging the state must resolve such tribal conflicts before they escalate.

"The writ of the government in tribal areas has ended, and people are being forced to leave their homes. Long-term conflict in any region endangers its geographical stability."

Commenting on the controversial 26th Amendment, Fazl recalled that JUI-F was the only opposition party to negotiate with the government over the amendment. "If one party can stand firm on constitutional and human rights principles, why can't others? I have always opposed martial law and authoritarian rule," he added.

Regarding Pakistan's ties with Afghanistan, he said that both countries were inseparable as brotherly nations. "Despite challenges, we must act as a responsible state and resolve issues amicably."

He also raised concerns over external influences, alleging, "The US, having faced defeat in the region, now seeks to push Pakistan into civil unrest".