By Asif Naveed
ISLAMABAD; JUI-F Chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman on Monday dismissed reports suggesting that he was seeking the position of opposition leader in the National Assembly, clarifying that he had no such ambition.
Speaking informally to journalists after meeting PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari at his residence in Islamabad, Maulana Fazlur Rehman said that no discussion took place regarding the opposition leader’s slot during their meeting.
“I have no interest in becoming the opposition leader in the National Assembly, nor was this issue part of today’s discussion,” he stated, adding that he was aware of his party’s strength in the House and would sit alongside his members on the opposition benches.
The JUI-F chief further clarified that no constitutional amendment was discussed during his meeting with Bilawal Bhutto. Both sides, however, deliberated on key political matters and agreed to continue political contact in the future.
Maulana Fazlur Rehman also accepted Bilawal Bhutto’s invitation to visit him at his Islamabad residence, describing their interaction as an “informal meeting without any specific agenda.”
When asked about his possible role in Pak-Afghan peace efforts, Fazlur Rehman said he would respond positively if requested to contribute. “Pakistan’s national interest is our top priority, and we will act accordingly,” he emphasized.
Commenting on regional dynamics, he said the JUI-F did not wish to see Pakistan’s problems worsen despite policy differences. “Tension between Pakistan and Afghanistan serves neither nation’s interest,” he noted, while questioning Islamabad’s past foreign policy approach toward Kabul. “Where is our so-called diplomatic depth if we are at odds with both Afghanistan and India?” he asked.
Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, accompanied by senior PPP leaders including Nayyar Hussain Bukhari, Humayun Khan, and Jameel Soomro, met Maulana Fazlur Rehman, who was joined by Maulana Asad Mahmood and Mufti Abrar. The hour-long meeting focused on Pakistan’s political situation, national issues, and mutual concerns.
Sources said Bilawal Bhutto sought Maulana Fazlur Rehman’s input on government formation in Azad Jammu and Kashmir, during which the JUI-F leader offered his perspective and advice.
