Fazl denies backing K-P govt ouster
Amid swirling rumours of a brewing "regime change" in the K-P, the JUI-F chief on July 12 threw his weight behind the idea of a political change in the PTI-led province, but with a caveat that the change must come from within the ruling party itself.
Dismissing the notion of backdoor manoeuvring, the Maulana had asserted that the legitimacy cannot be handed down by "boots" but must stem from the will of the people.
Speaking to the media during a visit to Charsadda, Fazl said he had not suggested a no-confidence move against the PTI government, but proposed a change within the province "not by breaking up parties or buying members, but by bringing new administration from within PTI itself".
He said he was not ending his disagreement with Imran Khan's party but did want to improve relations with it. "I want to keep the differences limited to the political level and reduce bitterness. I do not wish to respond to their aggression or indecency," he added.
Fazl stated that the current situation in the K-P could not sustain further political turmoil but reiterated the claim that the PTI was also imposed on the province through rigging in Feb 8, 2024 elections.
"Yes, the court has recognized the PTI government. The world is accepting itwe cannot change that. But history will judge whether our claim of a stolen mandate was right or wrong," he added. He condemned the PML-N's legal action against the JUI-F over a reserved seat in the K-P, asking as to how they could trust an opposition that kept aiding the provincial government.
"We practice moderate politics and show respect, but both the ruling party and opposition use abusive language against us and take us to court," he said, calling talk of a no-confidence move unrealistic.
The JUI-F chief also lambasted the establishment for its alleged failure to establish peace in the province in 40 years. "Why hasn't terrorism been eradicated in 40 years? State institutions are simply not serious about ending terrorism. They should not place the blame for their failure on the public."
Fazl said ensuring peace and security is the state's responsibility, and law enforcement agencies are obligated to protect the lives and property of citizens. "Terror incidents over the last four decades have mocked state institutions. The same state that claims it can bring India to its knees in four hours seems incapable of controlling domestic terrorism. This raises serious concerns about their intent," he said.
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