Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman met Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) Emir Hafiz Naeemur Rehman on Monday, agreeing to maintain independent political paths while collaborating on national and public interest issues.
While the two religio-political leaders found common ground on several issues, including the Gaza genocide and resistance to government policies, they did not reach a consensus on forming a formal alliance.
The meeting, held at Mansoora, focused on discussions related to national issues and the broader Muslim world.
Afterward, the two leaders addressed a joint press conference, where they discussed the current political landscape, the ongoing crisis in Palestine, constitutional matters and the evolving role of the opposition.
Describing the meeting as cordial, Naeemur Rehman said both parties reached a principled understanding to continue their political movements independently, while prioritising collaboration on major issues concerning the Muslim Ummah, particularly Palestine.
Maulana Fazlur Rehman expressed concern over the worsening situation in Palestine, adding that it was a collective concern for the Muslim world.
He announced a major rally at Minar-e-Pakistan on April 27, inviting participation from all religious and political parties, as well as the general public.
He revealed that religious parties are working to establish a joint platform titled Majlis-e-Ittehad-e-Ummat, aimed at articulating a unified stance on critical issues like Palestine.
Criticising the OIC's recent resolution on Palestine as insufficient, he urged the Muslim world to adopt a more assertive and unequivocal position.
On the issue of jihad, Fazlur Rehman clarified that it was a sacred duty, but not one that adheres to a fixed schedule like prayer. Rather, it was contingent on circumstances and strategy.
He said that anyone supporting the Palestinian cause in any capacity is, in essence, participating in jihad. He strongly criticised those who mock or misrepresent the concept.
While acknowledging past tensions with PTI, he asserted that JUI-F has never engaged in abusive politics and remains open to dialogue.
Hafiz Naeemur Rehman, meanwhile, termed the 26th Constitutional Amendment unnecessary, noting that JI and JUI-F had distinct policies on the issue. Despite political differences, he said, avenues for dialogue and consultation must remain open.
Both parties concluded the meeting with a mutual commitment to continued engagement and coordination on issues affecting the public, the Muslim Ummah and constitutional rights.
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