Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman demanded the federal government to step down and hold elections again stating that the recent general elections were marred by irregularities and labeled it as a sham.
Addressing a press conference in Multan on Wednesday, he underscored that the constitution and constitutional institutions must be supreme, and the establishment cannot be both subordinate and ruler.
Fazlur Rehman said that Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) is planning to launch a movement while his party has launched a movement against electoral rigging. We have adopted a categorical stand on the election results, and other parties also intend to start a movement against rigging.
The JUI chief went on to say that it does not seem that the incumbent government will be able to deliver because the current assembly is weak with the Pakistan People's Party (PPP) not being part of it.
He warned that if the nation doesn't rise against injustice, it will lead to slavery. He also expressed support for the farmers, who are facing oppression, and demanded accountability for those responsible.
The JUI chief clarified that he is open to negotiations but will not compromise on his stance against rigging. He revealed that two PTI delegations had met him, and some PTI members have been meeting him off the record.
Maulana Fazlur Rehman expressed solidarity with the struggling farmers of Punjab, who are facing immense oppression. He questioned the government's decision to import wheat despite having surplus stocks, and demanded accountability for those responsible for exploiting the farmers.
He reiterated his allegation that the assemblies are being sold, with candidates paying crores of rupees to secure seats. However, he emphasized that JUI is open to negotiations, provided a conducive environment is created. In fact, two delegations from PTI have already met with him, and he continues to engage in talks with them.
