Maulana Fazlur Rehman terms ‘Azm-e-Istehkam’ operation ‘Adam Istehkam’ operation

QUETTA: Maulana Fazlur Rehman, the leader of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F), has claimed that the state's authority is virtually non-existent in the country at present.

During a press conference in Quetta, he emphasized that armed groups are openly exercising control in both Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. While he admitted to not being fully updated on the situation in Balochistan, he pointed out that in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the police are confined to their stations after dark.

Maulana Fazlur Rehman condemned the proposed 'Azm-e-Istehkam' operation, arguing that it would only lead to further instability and insecurity (Adam Istehkam) in the nation. He questioned the rationale behind actions that seem to destabilize the country further. He also criticized Shahbaz Sharif, suggesting that Sharif is merely occupying the prime ministerial seat without actual decision-making power, which he implied lies elsewhere.

He commented on the influence of uniformed personnel in decision-making meetings, questioning the purpose of Pakistan's independence if it meant becoming subservient to generals. “Did we obtain Pakistan to become slaves to the generals?” he asked.

Maulana Fazlur Rehman expressed his support for political alliances and stressed the importance of continuous dialogue and consultation among political entities for better outcomes.

He also called for a reevaluation of goals with fresh perspectives, lamenting that democracy and parliament have lost their credibility. "We wish to live united under one roof in this country; we do not want to see the roof collapse," he concluded.