In a speech delivered in Charsadda, Maulana Fazlur Rehman, the head of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI), emphasized that they have approached the powers that be with love and reason, urging them to respect their demands in a courteous manner.
Fazlur Rehman expressed concern that in Pakistan, which was created in the name of Islam, people are mocking the religion. He reminded the audience that the blood of Muslims is sacred, and it is forbidden for one Muslim to shed the blood of another.
He further criticized the rulers and politicians for their mistreatment of Islam, declaring, “This country is not anyone’s personal property.” He stressed that industrialists, feudal lords, bureaucrats, and ordinary Pakistanis should all be considered equal in their status.
The JUI leader reaffirmed that Pakistan was founded on the principles of Islam, for which millions of Muslims sacrificed their lives. He also mentioned that religious scholars have remained loyal to the country, and JUI seeks peace in Pakistan.
Maulana Fazlur Rehman commented on the elections, saying that the ruling powers were only swayed by deceitful practices, comparing it to the controversial victory of Sheikh Hasina in Bangladesh. “We have explained our point with reasoning and love. Be polite and listen to us,” he urged.
He also noted the ongoing global conspiracies against religious schools (madrasas), stating that despite external pressures, madrasas are growing stronger. He highlighted that both the British and the current global powers aim to undermine madrasas, yet they continue to thrive.
Addressing constitutional matters, he criticized the government’s proposed 26th constitutional amendment, warning that if passed, it would have led to major destruction by strengthening military courts and limiting the powers of high courts.
Maulana Fazlur Rehman also spoke about Pakistan’s reliance on a usurious financial system, criticizing the entire banking sector for being based on interest. He dismissed the legitimacy of the current assembly, stating that people vote for one candidate but another wins, and that the government’s claims of improving the economy are unrealistic.
He concluded by asserting that Pakistan’s resources belong to the people, and no one, not even the wealthiest, has the right to seize them. He highlighted the deteriorating law and order situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and stressed that a strong government is essential for the country’s survival.
