Peshawar – Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI-F) leader Maulana Fazl-ur-Rehman has harshly criticised the provincial government, accusing it of failing to maintain law and order, resulting in widespread instability. In a press conference in Peshawar, he condemned the government’s inability to enforce its authority, stating that the current rulers were “enjoying a state of slumber” while the province descended into chaos.
“The government is completely detached from the reality of the people. There is no rule of law, and the administration has lost control over the situation. It is high time they wake up and take charge,” Maulana Fazl-ur-Rehman asserted.
The JUI-F leader also expressed concern over the Mines and Minerals Bill, which he believes seeks to undermine provincial rights by allowing the central government to seize control over local resources. He warned that if the federal government continues with this approach, his party would be forced to mobilise the public to protect provincial interests. “If the government doesn’t change its stance, we will have to take to the streets, and the people will rise to defend their resources,” he said.
Maulana Fazl-ur-Rehman further emphasised that his party would not accept any amendments to the 18th Amendment that undermine provincial autonomy. “We will not allow international powers or the federal government to take control of our resources. Any business or investment in our province must be done on our terms,” he said firmly.
In addition to his criticism of the provincial government, Maulana Fazl-ur- Rehman called for urgent talks with Afghanistan to address the growing issue of Afghan refugees in Pakistan. He suggested that the two countries should come together to create a scheduled plan for the repatriation of refugees, ensuring that the process is handled with dignity and in accordance with international norms.
Looking ahead, Maulana Fazl-ur-Rehman announced two major upcoming events: a March against Israel at Minar-e-Pakistan on April 27 and a Million March in Peshawar on March 11. “We will continue to fight for the rights granted to us by the constitution,” he concluded.
