Maulana Fazlur Rehman Calls for Chief Election Commissioner’s Resignation
JUI-F Chief Criticizes Sikandar Sultan Raja
The head of the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI), Maulana Fazlur Rahman, demanded the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Sikandar Sultan Raja, saying the latter had failed in all responsibilities and had become a puppet.
Opposition and Election Concerns
Speaking to media in Islamabad, Maulana Fazlur Rehman said he attended an opposition dinner hosted by Mahmood Achakzai and reiterated the opposition’s intention to keep the lines of communication open. He had apprehensions about the present government, which he termed a product of rigging.
Constitutional Amendments and Judicial Appointments
Rehman therefore raised voices of disquiet over the 26th Constitutional Amendment. Once, indeed, Parliament played a role in the appointments of judges, which has been reconsidered. He would wish for a constitutional court, but admitted, however, that having a constitutional bench is a step in the right direction.
Madrassa Registration and Governance
He criticized the government’s ineffectiveness regarding registration of madrassas, claiming that both federal and provincial would have to act without any pressure from outside. He insisted that uniform legislation is the need of the hour at both levels.
Call for Change in Election Leadership
The chief of JUI-F repeated the statement that the Chief Election Commissioner has failed in his assumed duties; before him, it is impossible to fathom the possibility of fair elections. He requested for Sikandar Sultan Raja to resign and leave the field open for fresh leadership.
IMF and Pakistan’s Economic Issues
Rehman also mentioned this meeting of the IMF delegation with Pakistani institutions, which he termed a peculiar event. Economies are firmly tied to justice and fairness, he hinted, which left the IMF with a shaky perception of Pakistan’s mode of governance.