Key Takeaways
- Maulana Fazlur Rehman of JUI-F refuses to apologise for his controversial remarks.
- He claims his criticism is aimed at policymakers, not the security institutions themselves.
- The JUI-F leader insists respect for martyrs and constitutional supremacy are key.
JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman has refused to apologise for controversial remarks made about security personnel, maintaining that his criticism is directed at those in charge of policymaking rather than the institutions themselves.
Speaking at a party lawyers' convention in Islamabad on Sunday, the veteran politician defended his statements, which had drawn widespread condemnation from political circles and calls for an apology from ruling party leaders.
Fazlur Rehman stated that he did not intend to disrespect soldiers or the institution; instead, he argued that he was reminding security forces of their responsibilities within constitutional bounds. He emphasized that a difference of opinion should not be misconstrued as enmity against the state.
The JUI-F leader reiterated his respect for martyrs and recalled how several of his comrades had fallen victim to terrorism, asserting that politics should not overshadow their sacrifices. He called on collective responsibility in respecting the families of these martyrs.
Fazlur Rehman also addressed another contentious issue during his speech — the delay in registering religious seminaries. He claimed an agreement was signed in 2004-2005 for this purpose, but no progress has been made. He accused the current government of being a 'product of electoral rigging' and alleged that his party had been offered to form part of the government in Balochistan and replace PTI in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Furthermore, Fazlur Rehman highlighted the rise in terrorism in southern districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. He called for an in-camera parliamentary session to address this issue, emphasizing that lawmakers should be informed about the gravity of the security situation.
In his speech, Fazlur Rehman emphasized the importance of constitutional supremacy as the source of state strength and stressed that criticism of policies should not equate hostility towards the state. He argued that solutions to national issues lie in dialogue and sound policies.
I have always honoured martyrs and paid tribute to their sacrifices, adding that politics should not be played over their honour.
Maulana Fazlur Rehman, JUI-F leader
