PESHAWAR: The central leader of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI), Engineer Zia-ur-Rehman on Wednesday revealed that talks are continuing between JUI-F emir, Maulana Fazal Rehman and Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder, Imran Khan.
He adds that there has not yet been any discussion of a formal meeting between Maulana Fazlur Rehman and Imran Khan, the two parties are exchanging messages through PTI leaders.
In a recent appearance on the Pakhtun Digital Podcast, Zia-ur-Rehman emphasized that Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam is the only party actively serving as a genuine opposition on public issues.
He noted that no other political party has managed to apply political pressure on the government as effectively as JUI does.
He also pointed out that Maulana Fazlur Rehman is a key figure in national politics, and the future of political dynamics in the country hinges on his decisions. This significance leads both opposition and ruling party leaders to consult with him when necessary.
Before establishing a Grand Opposition Alliance, Zia-ur-Rehman stressed the importance of resolving existing misunderstandings among parties in the opposition. He observed that the political divide between PTI and Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam has narrowed compared to the past, and interactions between the two parties have increased, which he views positively.
Regarding the need for political stability in the country, he asserted that new elections are essential.
He criticized the previous elections, claiming that there was rigging in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and stated that the legitimacy of those elections cannot be accepted.
He stressed that political stability cannot be achieved until citizens are allowed to elect their representatives, as ongoing security issues in Pakistan are linked to this lack of electoral rights.
When asked about the merger of FATA (Federally Administered Tribal Areas), Engineer Zia-ur-Rehman confirmed that it has been constitutionally integrated into Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
He acknowledged that this merger is now a constitutional reality that must be accepted.
He reiterated that Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam has consistently maintained that every decision which reflects the people’s opinion can never be deemed wrong.
