Maulana Fazlur Rehman Monday said the country is passing through a serious phase marked by rising insecurity, political instability, and economic hardship, and called for renewed commitment to constitutional supremacy and democratic dialogue.
Addressing a “Meet the Press” session in Karachi, the JUI-F chief said the law and order situation is deteriorating, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, where, he claimed, conditions resemble rebellion, with armed elements challenging the writ of the state. He added that in parts of interior Sindh, criminal networks are operating with impunity.
Fazlur Rehman criticised the ruling authorities for what he described as a lack of seriousness in addressing both security and economic challenges.
He alleged that undue influence over parliament and government has weakened democratic institutions and warned that disrespect for parliament and the constitution undermines the federation.
He said the public is burdened by inflation and has grown frustrated with the prevailing conditions.
Stressing the importance of the people’s mandate, he questioned whether the current parliament truly represents the public will and emphasized that national decisions should reflect the principle of consultation (Shura) in Islam rather than the will of a single authority.
Referring to past political developments, he said political parties had worked together during the passage of the 18th Amendment to the Constitution of Pakistan to restore the constitution to its original spirit through parliamentary consensus.
He urged that parliamentary decisions should not be undermined and said dialogue within the constitutional framework is the only viable path forward, dismissing any notion of dismantling the system.
The JUI-F leader also spoke about broader global trends, saying democracy is under strain worldwide amid the rise of capitalism, authoritarianism, and militarism. He reiterated that his party has historically resisted authoritarian rule and continues to advocate democratic movements.
On regional matters, Fazlur Rehman said Pakistan has an important role to play in easing tensions related to Iran-US relations and highlighted the need for constructive engagement with neighboring Afghanistan. He noted that Pashtun populations live on both sides of the Durand Line and said both countries are interconnected and indispensable to each other.