ISLAMABAD: Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) leader Maulana Fazlur Rehman has declared the party’s disapproval of the recently held elections and invited Nawaz Sharif, the head of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), to join him on the opposition benches in parliament.
During a press briefing in Islamabad, Fazl expressed doubts regarding the fairness of the electoral process and criticized the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP).
“The central committee of our party convened today, rejecting the election outcomes and expressing concerns about the conduct of the Election Commission of Pakistan. Despite our reservations, JUI-F will participate in parliamentary proceedings,” said Fazl.
He alleged that the electoral process was influenced by “anti-Islamic forces” and reiterated the party’s commitment to fostering strong ties between Afghanistan and Pakistan, which, according to him, were not welcomed by the United States and Israel.
“Firm in our ideological stance, JUI-F will not compromise on national interests. We will pursue our objectives steadfastly,” Fazl asserted, highlighting suspicions surrounding the ECP’s role from the onset.
Furthermore, he alleged widespread bribery in the election results and claimed that JUI-F candidates and workers faced intimidation and threats, with the police allegedly being held captive in several areas, thereby creating a hostile environment for the elections.
“If the authorities believe the elections were fair, then their narrative surrounding the May 9 incident collapses,” Fazl challenged, inviting Nawaz Sharif to join the opposition in protesting against the purported irregularities.
Responding to queries, he clarified that the dispute was ideological with Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and not personal, suggesting the possibility of reconciliation if PTI’s stance shifted.
Fazl concluded by announcing JUI-F’s intention to launch a nationwide protest movement to push for their demands.
He emphasized that the level of rigging in the recent elections surpassed that of the 2018 polls, accusing the ECP of being under the control of the establishment and alleging manipulation throughout the electoral process.
“The election process was held captive, with bribes influencing outcomes. Consequently, we’re initiating a nationwide protest to advocate for democracy. Decisions will now be made beyond parliamentary boundaries,” Fazl declared, stressing the party’s readiness and independence.
(Islamabad51_Newsdesk)
