JUI-F leader Maulana Fazlur Rehman has expressed skepticism about the fairness of the February 8 elections, suggesting that if the establishment views them as fair, it would signal the end of the narrative surrounding the events of May 9.
On that day, PTI-backed candidates secured the most seats in the National Assembly, but it was marred by protests and subsequent arrests, leading to a turbulent period for the party.
Despite setbacks, PTI-affiliated candidates emerged victorious, prompting major parties like PML-N, PPP, and PTI to form coalitions to govern. However, JUI-F decided against joining any coalition led by PDM, the alliance that ousted Imran Khan in 2022.
Read more: JUI-F protestors barges into Red Zone of Islamabad
Maulana Fazlur Rehman criticized the election commission’s handling of the polls, alleging rigging and suggesting bias influenced by external powers. He announced that JUI-F would participate in assemblies but with reservations, ruling out coalition partnerships and emphasizing the party’s independence.
He hinted at potential protests and outlined upcoming meetings to strategize further action. Despite ideological differences with PTI, he invited PML-N to join the opposition alongside JUI-F. The absence of JUI-F from a recent coalition meeting signals potential discord within the opposition ranks.
Meanwhile, PML-N leader Shehbaz Sharif advocated for unity among political parties, offering proposals like the ‘Charter of Economy’ and ‘Charter of Democracy’ to move forward and accept the split mandate. Following a meeting, he was nominated for the prime ministerial position, with Maryam Nawaz as the candidate for Punjab chief ministership.
Read more: JUI-F firmly against talks with PTI: Fazl