ISLAMABAD: Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman has announced the formation of a “United Opposition” following a meeting with opposition leaders.
Maulana Fazlur Rehman held an important meeting with National Assembly Opposition Leader Mahmood Achakzai, during which the decision to move towards the formation of a united opposition was announced.
Speaking to the media, the JUI-F chief said consultations had been held with the opposition leaders in both the Senate and the National Assembly. He said there was an agreement to move towards a united opposition and that the opposition parties wanted to play a joint parliamentary role.
Maulana Fazlur Rehman said, however, that further consultations would continue on the matter. He added that more meetings would be held and expressed hope that a good beginning had been made.
The JUI-F chief said the consultations with opposition leaders had paved the way for greater coordination among opposition parties. He reiterated that the objective was to develop a joint parliamentary role while keeping further discussions and consultations open.
During his interaction with the media, a journalist asked whether the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) would also be brought into the proposed united opposition.
In response, Maulana Fazlur Rehman said the PPP was part of the government. He added that an environment should also be created for an All Parties Conference of opposition parties.
The announcement followed consultations with the opposition leadership in both houses of Parliament and the meeting between Maulana Fazlur Rehman and Mahmood Achakzai. According to the JUI-F chief, the opposition has agreed in principle to move towards a united platform and adopt a joint parliamentary role.
Also Read: AJK Tensions Could Rise Due to Khawaja Asif’s Remarks, Says Fazlur Rehman
He also indicated that the process would continue through further meetings and consultations. While describing the development as a positive start, he said he hoped the upcoming discussions would lead to further progress.
Maulana Fazlur Rehman’s announcement comes with the opposition seeking greater coordination in Parliament. However, he made it clear that the process was still subject to further consultation and that additional meetings would take place.
Regarding the possibility of involving the PPP, the JUI-F chief pointed out that the party was currently part of the government. He also called for creating an atmosphere conducive to holding an All Parties Conference involving opposition parties.
