Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday met with Maulana Fazlur Rehman, chief of the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI), to discuss the possibility of rekindling their past political alliance.

The meeting, which took place at the JUI chief’s residence, highlighted the government’s efforts to navigate the ongoing challenges facing the country.

According to sources, this was the second high-profile meeting between Fazlur Rehman and key leaders in a week, following a visit by President Arif Alvi.

PM Sharif, accompanied by Federal Ministers Ishaq Dar, Mohsin Raza Naqvi, and Atta Tarar, personally reached out to the JUI chief, requesting his support and cooperation in addressing the nation’s current difficulties.

During the meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasized the need for unity and collaboration, expressing his desire to work together once again.

“Maulana Sahib, “We want to work together again, just like we did in the past,” the prime minister stated, adding, “We request you to guide us once more.” In response, Fazlur Rehman acknowledged the government’s overture but pointed out that while his stance remained consistent, it was the government that had changed its course. “We are where we were in the past, you have changed your path,” the JUI-F chief said.

The interaction between the two leaders was cordial, with Maulana Fazlur Rehman personally welcoming the premier and discussing the country's political situation in detail. Shehbaz Sharif also inquired about JUI chief’s well-being and presented him with a bouquet as a gesture of goodwill.

Other notable JUI leaders, including Maulana Abdul Ghafoor Haidari, Maulana Asaad Mehmood, and Aslam Ghori, were also present during the meeting, indicating the importance of this potential political realignment.