Maulana Fazlur Rehman criticizes alleged election manipulation

Maulana Fazlur Rehman, the chief of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F), has strongly criticized the alleged manipulation of poll results in the February 8, 2024 general elections, claiming they were more rigged than the 2018 elections. This comes after a surprising alliance between the Imran Khan-led Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and the JUI-F, who were once political adversaries, formed an 'ideological coordination' against the PML-N-led government.

Fazlur Rehman played a pivotal role in uniting the PML-N and the PPP under the Pakistan Democratic Movement, leading to the ousting of Imran Khan in April 2022 through a no-confidence motion — a historic event in Pakistan's political landscape. However, tensions arose between the JUI-F and its former allies when they felt sidelined in the formation of the new government post the recent elections.

Addressing a public gathering in Balochistan, Fazlur Rehman emphasized the importance of unity among political forces, stating that politicians have historically been manipulated by the establishment. He accused former military officials of orchestrating Khan's removal and denounced the election results, alleging widespread rigging and corruption.

The JUI-F has vowed to continue its protest against the alleged rigging, announcing a boycott of the upcoming by-elections and launching a movement from Balochistan. The opposition alliance, including the JUI-F and PTI, has initiated a protest drive against the government, with both sides adamant in their stance.

In conclusion, the political landscape in Pakistan remains turbulent, with allegations of electoral fraud and power struggles dominating the discourse. The JUI-F's defiance against the perceived injustice in the electoral process underscores the deep-rooted challenges facing the country's democratic institutions.