Latest news with #Fazl
Express Tribune
23-07-2025
- Politics
- Express Tribune
Palestine: two-state solution rejected
The Milli Yakjehti Council (MYC) Pakistan, a coalition of religious and political parties, has firmly rejected the two-state solution for Palestine and the Abraham Accords, urging the government to clarify its official position on both issues. The council also voiced serious concerns over the country's deteriorating security and economic conditions, as well as rising social injustice during a consultative meeting of MYC leadership hosted by Islami Tehreek Pakistan. Religious scholars and political leaders from various parties participated in the high-level session, chaired by MYC President Sahibzada Abu Al-Khair Muhammad Zubair. JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman attended the event as the chief guest. In his keynote address, Fazl said that Pakistani religious scholars have always rejected armed struggle and militancy. He alleged that external pressures have led to attempts to ban religious seminaries in the country. Fazl pointed out that despite military operations in Balochistan and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P), the government has failed to establish its writ. "Armed groups roam the streets freely, day and night," he said. He attributed the prevailing instability and chaos to the government's incompetence. He also expressed concern over Pakistan's gradual withdrawal from the Kashmir issue. In his address, Zubair criticised Pakistan's stance on Palestine. He said that the government, like Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, wants a Nobel Prize for US President Donald Trump. "Israel is weaponising hunger against Palestinians," Zubair stated. Islami Tehreek Pakistan head Allama Sajid Naqvi called for coordinated action plans that would send a clear message to the imperialist powers behind the war in Gaza. "While there have been public protests across Pakistan, there has been no significant diplomatic pressure from our government," he noted.
Express Tribune
14-07-2025
- Politics
- Express Tribune
Fazl denies backing K-P govt ouster
JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman has clarified his stance with regard to a change in government in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (K-P), stating that he had called for a change to be brought about by the PTI lawmakers themselves, not by any external force. 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.
Business Recorder
12-07-2025
- Politics
- Business Recorder
Fazl wants ‘political change' in KP
PESHAWAR: Expressing his desire for change in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) Chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman said that since the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) holds the majority in KP and any change in the province should come from within the party itself. Speaking at a news conference here on Saturday, JUI-F chief stated that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is suffering from insecurity, Sindh is under the control of criminals, and Balochistan is facing terrorism, while the rulers are extorting armed groups. How terrorism could be eradicated from the country; emphasising that this is a matter to ponder over now, Fazl questioned. The party chief suggested that change should come to the province, specifically from within the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) in KP. He claimed that during JUI-F's government, there was complete peace and order in the province; and any decision regarding change in KP would be made after consultation within the party. The JUI-F chief remarked that the KP government's majority is 'fake' and that the province cannot afford political turmoil. Terming the merger of the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) as a wrong decision made without consultation, Fazl called for the reversal of this constitutional amendment in the national interest. He urged political parties to acknowledge that the FATA merger was a mistake. He suggested that those responsible should acknowledge their lack of political insight. Regarding the Senate elections, he said: 'I cannot comment on any adjustment yet, but future plans would be decided after consultations with jirgas, and all decisions would involve the consultation of FATA tribes. A grand jirga of FATA tribes is scheduled for tomorrow, he added. He said that whether the government regretted its actions or if it is merely a strategy to exploit FATA's natural resources. Fazl said, 'If I was satisfied with the federal government's performance, I would be part of it, but since assemblies have been bought, I cannot be part of corrupt government.' He further stated that differences among political parties are common, but they should not turn into personal enmities. He said that JUI-F would not recognise armed groups, suggesting that PTI could hold talks if it changes its attitude. He shared that young PTI workers visit him, sit with him, and ask him questions. To a question, he said he could not comment on seat adjustments regarding the Senate. Urging acceptance of the public's decision, Fazl said, 'The JUI-F will not come to power relying on anyone. If the JUI-F-led government comes to power, corruption and extortion will end. Talking about the PTI protests movement, the JUI chief said that the protest movement should be for a greater cause, not merely for the release of any individual. Fazl added that if any issues arise with the Pakistan Peoples' Party (PPP), they would sit together to resolve them, and an All-Parties Conference (APC) should be convened to address law and order concerns. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Express Tribune
12-07-2025
- Business
- Express Tribune
PM Shehbaz pledges economic turnaround through structural reforms
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif addresses a delegation of students selected for the government's internship programme, Uraan Pakistan, Summer Scholars, in Islamabad on July 12, 2025. Photo: APP Listen to article Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said the government was committed to steering the country towards an economic turnaround through structural reforms, institutional changes, and a renewed focus on meritocracy, Associated Press of Pakistan (APP) reported on Saturday. Addressing a group of Pakistani students enrolled in leading international universities under the government's Uraan Pakistan Summer Scholars Programme, the prime minister said the coalition government had assumed office in 2023 at a time when the country was on the brink of default. 'The majority believed Pakistan would default, while a small minority held hope that we might avoid it,' he said, recalling his meetings with the IMF managing director where he assured Pakistan's commitment to stabilising the economy and completing the programme. Read More: Punjab speaker forms committee to address suspended PTI members' references The premier said inflation had surged to 38 per cent and the policy rate stood at 22.5pc at that time, while business sentiment had plummeted. 'The burden was immense, but we moved forward with sincerity and unity. Today, the policy rate has been brought down to below 11pc, and initiatives like Uraan Pakistan have taken off.' He described the path ahead as 'challenging', noting that successive governments had avoided undertaking structural reforms. 'We must now commit to these long-overdue changes through sustained effort,' he stressed. براہِ راست: وزیراعظم کی انٹرن شپ پروگرام اڑان پاکستان-سمر اسکالرز کے طلباء سے گفتگو — Government of Pakistan (@GovtofPakistan) July 12, 2025 Highlighting reforms within the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), he claimed that the government had acted decisively to remove corrupt officials without yielding to political pressure or the culture of sifarish. 'Previously, digitisation efforts were confined to paperwork, manipulated by vested interests,' he said, adding that his government had appointed competent individuals, including a new FBR chairman and expert consultants. 'Today, FBR's operations are increasingly digital, with AI-based tools and faceless interaction becoming the norm.' Also Read: Fazl urges political change in K-P, calls for shift from within PTI ranks As a result of enforcement efforts, he said, revenue collection in one sector alone had increased from Rs12 billion to over Rs50bn in a year, revealing the extent of past tax evasion. 'We face a long and thorny journey, with mountain-like challenges,' the prime minister remarked. 'But we will not shy away from our responsibilities. I believe in teamwork and accountability—those who perform are recognised, and those who don't are shown the door.' He said failure to meet economic goals was not an option. 'Delivery is the name of the game; performance is the name of the game.' Emphasising the importance of youth development, he said investment in young people was an investment in Pakistan's future. Responding to questions from students, the premier recalled launching merit-based scholarships in Punjab for underprivileged students during his tenure as chief minister. On climate change, the prime minister noted that Pakistan had suffered massive economic losses during the 2022 floods—estimated at $30bn—despite contributing only a negligible share to global emissions. Responding to another question, PM Shehbaz addressed recent tensions with India, stating that during May this year, Pakistan responded to 'uncalled aggression' in the aftermath of the Pahalgam incident. Read More: SJC reviews 24 judicial complaints, dismisses 19 He said Pakistan had proposed an international investigation into the matter, but India did not respond. 'As a result of Indian aggression, 55 Pakistanis were martyred. We responded in self-defence by downing six Indian aircraft,' he claimed, adding that on May 9 and 10, Pakistan had retaliated with full force. He lauded the armed forces for their professionalism and reiterated that Pakistan's nuclear programme was solely for peaceful purposes and national defence. The prime minister expressed confidence in the students selected under the Uraan Pakistan programme and extended best wishes for their academic and professional journeys.
Express Tribune
29-06-2025
- Politics
- Express Tribune
JUI-F chief says govt lacks mandate, warns of protest
Listen to article Chief of his own faction of the Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam (JUI-F), Maulana Fazlur Rehman on Sunday issued a stern warning to the federal government, claiming that his party could 'take over Islamabad within a week's notice' if pushed to the brink. Addressing the Shaair-e-Islam Conference in Battagram, the JUI-F chief said his party rejected both the 2018 and the 2024 general elections, describing them as 'fraudulent and manipulated.' He accused the ruling coalition of lacking legitimacy and warned the establishment against ignoring the public's will. 'These kinds of governments cannot last,' Rehman said. 'Those who consider themselves powerful should bow before the will of the people.' Claiming that his party stands for constitutional supremacy, the JUI-F leader vowed to lead a movement that would bring about a 'revolution' in the country. 'We want rule of law and the Constitution. JUI-F workers will be in the field, and success will be ours, because the power of Allah is with us,' he added. بٹگرام: قائد جمعیت مولانا فضل الرحمٰن مدظلہ جلسے سے خطاب کر رہے ہیں۔#JUIBattagramJalsa — Jamiat Ulama-e-Islam Pakistan (@juipakofficial) June 29, 2025 Taking a strong anti-US stance, Fazl accused Washington of hypocrisy and betrayal. 'The same America that abandoned us many times is now asking to join hands again, invoking the name of Prophet Ibrahim (AS),' he said. 'But how can we forget America's role in the oppression of Muslims in Palestine, Libya, Egypt, Syria, and Jordan?' Referring to recent praise for US President Donald Trump by the government, he criticised the prime minister's nomination of Trump for a Nobel Peace Prize. 'Our view is clear: if Trump exists, peace does not — and if peace exists, Trump does not,' he said. The JUI-F chief also expressed solidarity with Iran in opposition to Israel and pledged readiness to defend the sanctity of the holy sites. 'We are committed to the unity of the Muslim Ummah and ready to protect the Haramain,' he said. Warning of dire consequences, he said his party was being 'forced' toward a confrontation. 'We prioritise national security, but if the need arises, we will declare jihad and lay down our lives for this country's defence,' he asserted. Reiterating his rejection of the prevailing political order, Fazl said his party would continue to oppose the current setup. 'We did not allow the previous government to function, and we will not allow this one to function either,' he declared. 'We are not willing to accept this government and will continue to stand against it.' The conference was also addressed by senior JUI-F leaders, including Maulana Abdul Ghafoor Haideri, who alleged that the current provincial government in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa had 'broken all records of corruption."
