Daily Times

Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI-F) leader Maulana Fazlur Rehman has clarified that he has no role in the efforts to secure the release of former Prime Minister Imran Khan.

Speaking to the media, Fazlur Rehman said that while he has always advocated for constitutional and democratic principles, he was not involved in any negotiations or activities related to Imran Khan’s release.

Fazlur Rehman further criticised the broader political landscape, stating that the weakness of democracy in Pakistan is largely due to the actions of the country’s politicians. He emphasised that many politicians had compromised on democratic values for their personal gains, undermining the foundation of the country’s political system.

He also condemned the recent incident involving Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif in London. Rehman asserted that it was the responsibility of the UK authorities to handle the matter in accordance with the law.

On the issue of the US’s influence on Pakistan’s politics, Rehman reiterated that Pakistan should avoid interference in US politics and likewise, should not allow foreign entities to meddle in its own internal matters.

He remarked that whether it is the Republican Party or the Diplomats in the US, the country’s policies remain consistent and do not directly impact Pakistan’s political sovereignty. Fazlur Rehman reiterated his opposition to the imprisonment of any politician. He expressed his belief that, rather than relying on political manoeuvres, Pakistan’s political system should strengthen democracy and the rule of law.

Previously, Fazlur Rehman had condemned the amendments to the Anti-Terrorism Act, labelling them as an affront to democracy and a violation of human rights.

Speaking at an event in London, he argued that the amendments, which allow individuals to be held in detention for up to 90 days on mere suspicion, violate fundamental human rights and undermine constitutional values.

He described the amendments as an insult to democracy and a breach of basic freedoms, noting that the military had been given extensive powers since 2010 in the battle against terrorism, but the country has yet to see a significant decline in terrorist activities.

JUI chief, who advocates for a strong military to ensure Pakistan’s security, also linked the country’s development to the establishment of an Islamic system and the elimination of the usurious financial system. He insisted that without these reforms, Pakistan’s progress would be stunted and its survival threatened.