Fazl refuses to apologise for controversial remarks

Maulana Fazlur Rehman, chief of the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F), has publicly refused to apologize for controversial remarks he made regarding security personnel. Addressing a party lawyers' convention in Islamabad, Rehman asserted that his comments were not aimed at disrespecting state institutions or martyrs but were directed at those in positions of policymaking. He emphasized his utmost respect for the sacrifices of security forces and stated that criticism of policies should not be misconstrued as enmity towards the state.

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I have no disagreements with state institutions; rather, my misgivings were with those at the helm of affairs.

Rehman's remarks followed widespread condemnation after a political gathering where he reportedly made comments about security and terrorism in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. He claimed his statements were being misrepresented to malign him and his party, reiterating that a difference of opinion should not be equated with hostility. He stressed that solutions to national issues lie in dialogue and sound policies, and that respect for any institution is linked to its adherence to its constitutional role.

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My criticism was aimed at those who were in charge of policymaking.

During his address, the JUI-F leader also touched upon the delayed registration of religious seminaries, noting that an agreement for their registration, signed years ago, had seen no progress. Furthermore, Rehman alleged that the current government is a "product of electoral rigging." He revealed that his party had been offered government positions in Balochistan and the chance to replace the PTI in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa but had declined both offers.

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A difference of opinion should not be taken as 'enmity' against the state.

Rehman maintained that he would not retract his statements under pressure, asserting that facts cannot be altered by vilification. He paid tribute to martyrs and stressed the collective responsibility to respect their families, recalling that many of his own comrades had fallen victim to terrorism. His stance underscores a continued defiance against perceived attempts to silence criticism through pressure and misrepresentation.

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The facts cannot be changed by vilifying him.