Jamiat Ulema Islam -Fazal (JUI-F) Maulana Fazlur Rehman on Wednesday expressed his dissatisfaction with the electoral process, stating that while elections take place in the country, the compilation of results is influenced by external forces.
Addressing a rally in Dera Ismail Khan, he stressed the need for a transparent electoral process, arguing that the power to govern should lie solely with the elected representatives of the people.
Maulana Fazlur Rehman underscored the constitutional significance of public participation, emphasizing that the right to rule is an inherent mandate of the electorate.
“We are not enemies of anyone,” he remarked, noting, however, that the establishment's influence on state affairs remains intact, which he claimed restricts the independence of public institutions.
The JUI chief also reiterated his party's commitment to upholding the sanctity of the Constitution. Reflecting on the 1973 Constitution, he highlighted its significance as a consensus document, which, despite differing political opinions at the time, remains a testament to national unity.
“The 1973 Constitution acknowledges Islam as the state religion, ensuring Pakistan’s identity as a religious, not a secular, nation,” he said, adding that no legislation can be enacted against the Quran and Sunnah.
He pointed out that, according to the constitution, recommendations from the Islamic Ideology Council should be taken seriously, and all laws must adhere to Islamic principles.
Fazlur Rehman concluded by affirming JUI's stance on preserving parliamentary independence, stating that his party would continue to advocate for an unbiased electoral framework aligned with constitutional principles.
