Fazl urges President Zardari to ‘protect’ 18th Amendment

JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman has placed President Asif Ali Zardari in a critical position, imploring him to safeguard the 18th Amendment—a landmark achievement of political parties in 2010 that restored constitutional supremacy after periods of military rule. Rehman's call comes amid growing speculation about a potential 28th Amendment, which he fears could be designed to further entrench the military's influence.

“

It was the PPP’s government and Asif Ali Zardari was the president. Many people don’t know that President Zardari awarded the Nishan-i-Imtiaz to everyone involved in it. I was the only one who refused to accept it. Now, he’s president again and the 18th Amendment is under the radar. I ask him and invite him on behalf of my party to come forward and save the 18th Amendment for which his party takes credit.

Rehman expressed strong dissatisfaction with the current government's priorities, asserting that it is neglecting pressing issues such as law and order and economic improvement. He argued that any new legislation seems geared towards bolstering the military establishment rather than addressing the public's needs. This sentiment is particularly resonant in Pakistan, where the military's role in politics and governance has been a long-standing concern.

The JUI-F leader reiterated his demand for fresh, free, and fair elections, believing they are essential for bringing 'real representatives' of the people into power. He highlighted the dire security situation in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, describing it as akin to a 'rebellion,' and pointed to the alarming economic reality where nearly half the population lives below the poverty line.

“

So, in this situation, we all see that the country is facing serious political, economic and security crises while the ruling authorities are not showing seriousness in solving public problems, improving law and order, or strengthening the economy.

In response to these crises, the JUI-F has announced a nationwide protest for May 22 to voice opposition to government policies and escalating inflation. Rehman stressed that the party would operate within the constitutional and legal framework, signaling a commitment to peaceful dissent while demanding accountability and a return to democratic principles. The party's stance underscores a deep-seated concern among certain political factions about the direction of governance and the balance of power in Pakistan.

“

We have already announced a nationwide protest on May 22 to denounce government policies and growing inflation. We cannot remain silent spectators to the situation. We will play our role peacefully within the constitutional and legal framework.