Change in KP should be from within PTI: Fazl

PESHAWAR: Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUIF) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman on Saturday suggested that any political change in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) should come from within the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), emphasizing that the province cannot afford further political instability.

Speaking at a press conference at the Mufti Mehmood Centre here, Maulana Fazl stated, “Our province cannot bear political chaos. If a change is to come, my suggestion is that it should emerge from within the PTI itself.” He added that his party would make any final decision about the province’s future after internal consultation.

He further emphasised that political movements should not merely aim for the release of jailed leaders but should serve greater national cause. Reflecting on past efforts, he said JUIF had led million marches across the country to boost public morale and raise awareness on key issues. On his relationship with other political parties, Maulana Fazl clarified, “We have political differences with PPP, PMLN, and ANP, but not enmity. Likewise, there is no hostility between PTI and JUIF, though we’ve had a bitter past.”

He welcomed dialogue with the opposition on matters of national importance, including law and order, and stressed the need for all political parties to accept that true political vision was lacking in today’s leadership. To a question about the Senate elections, Fazl evaded a direct reply saying it was too early to comment on any political adjustments or alliances related to them.

Turning to the Fata merger, Fazlur Rehman reiterated his opposition, calling it a “mistake” that was made without proper consultation with tribal elders. He emphasised that JUIF had always sought input from tribal leaders before making decisions, saying, “The merger was never our goal. Our concern was with the political future of the tribal people.” He announced that a grand tribal jirga would meet again soon to further deliberate on the matter, adding that the Fata Reforms Committee lacked proper representation from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Pakhtun leaders. “The committee has now asked JUIF for nominations and recognised us as a stakeholder,” he noted.

Maulana Fazl also criticised the federal and provincial governments for failing to maintain law and order, stating, “Three provinces are under the grip of lawlessness. In Sindh, bandits rule, and in KP and Balochistan, peace remains elusive.” The Maulana said that the ruling elite was busy in luxuries and filling their own pockets, while the poor suffered the consequences of terrorism.