ISLAMABAD: With national elections looming just two months away, Maulana Fazlur Rehman, the chief of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F), expressed apprehensions yesterday about the feasibility of holding elections in the terrorism-affected regions of Balochistan and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P).

Addressing the grave security situation in these provinces, Fazl lamented the entanglement of these areas in terrorism, leading to the tragic loss of his party workers.

Painting a dire picture, he highlighted the absence of police personnel in critical areas such as Dera Ismail Khan, Tank, and Lakki Marwat, casting doubt on the practicality of conducting elections amid such chaos. While asserting their perpetual readiness for elections, the JUI-F chief underscored the necessity of creating conducive electoral environment.

He also criticised the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), suggesting that its future in the political landscape was precarious.

He claimed the party lacked organic people's support, alleging that it was installed and had lost momentum. According to him, individuals previously loyal to the PTI had been coerced into joining, with some openly admitting to being compelled to join the former ruling party.

Discussing political alliances, Fazl disclosed collaboration with the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), expressing a desire to maintain relations and a willingness to make seat adjustments.

He emphasised the importance of respecting the people's choice in electing the prime minister, committing to adhere to principles in politics.

The JUI-F leader pledged to sustain their alliance with the PML-N based on shared principles. The JUI-F chief reiterated his party's preparedness for elections but stressed the importance of creating a favourable electoral environment.

He argued that Pakistan's security situation shouldn't be limited to Lahore alone, suggesting that similar favourable conditions should be established in other provinces for a peaceful electoral process. Meanwhile, the JUI-F chief shared insights into discussions on various issues during a meeting of the federal madrasa board in Islamabad.

Additionally, he announced a large gathering at the convention center tomorrow, focusing on obstacles in the operation of the madrassa system and emphasising the need for a legal mechanism for madrassa registration.

Published in The Daily National Courier, December, 06 2023

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