Maulana Fazlur Rehman described the government as "powerless" while questioning the current counterterrorism policy. The JUI-F leader challenged the logic behind imposing an emergency and governor's rule in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Rehman demanded that parliament hold an in-camera session to investigate why the nation has failed to stop terrorism. The JUI-F reported that approximately 250 religious scholars and workers have died in the fight against terrorism.
Rehman stated that his criticisms target government policies rather than state institutions and dismissed allegations from federal ministers as character assassination. He claimed that decisions are made in Rawalpindi while parliament is merely instructed to follow them, leading the government to implement orders obediently from elsewhere.
The leader argued that the country requires a shared national narrative and a counterterrorism strategy built on consensus. Rehman urged the government to explain its choices and involve the public instead of using unilateral measures.
He noted that the government chose to join an international alliance against terrorism and claimed it decided to negotiate with the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). Rehman observed that the PTI previously held power in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and is currently accused of supporting terrorists.
"Our only question is why the country has failed to eliminate terrorism. Let us sit together and find out why. Parliament is the most appropriate forum to discuss the issue and make decisions. Instead of ridiculing politicians, the government should take them on board in this fight so that we can move forward together," Rehman said. "We have no desire to start a debate in the country. The sacrifices should not be made controversial," he added.
"If the nation is expected to form lashkars against terrorism and sit in trenches, it must at least be taken into confidence," Rehman said.
