KARACHI: The religio-political parties on Monday announced the revival of the defunct Muttahida Majlis-e-Amal (MMA). Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) senior leader Liaqat Baloch made announcement of the decision to revive MMA and appointment of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman as president of the alliance. While talking to reporters, the newly appointed president congratulated the entire nation on the revival of the party. “We have made way to the beginning of a new era,” Fazl said. “We hope to match the expectations of the nation,” he said, announcing to contest the upcoming general elections from the joint platform. Fazl said all parties will be given equal importance in decision making within the alliance. He stated that the MMA is in favour of giving equal rights to the minorities, adding that the country needs peace and development. Speaking on the occasion, JI chief Siraj-ul-Haq said that the MMA had begun its journey with a new resolve and it will represent the citizens on all platforms. Baloch, who was appointed as general secretary of the MMA, announced that the central workers convention will be held in the first week of April. Last week, Fazl had dismissed rumours about differences in MMA saying that they will contest the upcoming elections from the platform of MMA and under a united leadership. The decision to revive MMA was made in November last year. “We are thankful to Allah for this. The restoration of MMA for the protection of the Islamic identity of the country, its safety, and security is welcome news for democratic stability. Running the country according to the constitution and Islamic principles is necessary,” Sirajul Haq had said after the decision was made. Published in Daily Times, March 21st 2018.