Fazl rejects constitutional amendment draft, urges institutional balance
Pakistan
Constitutional amendment could usurp individual freedom: JUI-F chief
TANDO ALLAHYAR (Dunya News) – The Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI) Chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman said that they rejected the government’s draft of the constitutional amendment, which could potentially infringe on individual freedoms.
Talking to the media, he mentioned that there is a possibility of disagreement when the amendment is presented.
He emphasised that everything must be done in the country's best interest. Priority should be given to the nation’s needs, not to empower any specific institution, but rather to create a balance among all institutions.
Regarding the amendment process, Maulana Fazlur Rehman highlighted that it has been a long and arduous effort. "After significant hard work, we succeeded in reaching a consensus," he added.
He further stated that they were not in favor of passing laws that go against the interests of the people. "The matters we rejected have resurfaced," he asserted. Sarcastically, he noted that while it took nine months to pass the 18th amendment, they should at least be given nine days to pass the 26th amendment.
Additionally, he affirmed their belief that extremism should not exist anywhere. He pointed out that the Prophet (PBUH) is respected within the constitution and the law.
Maulana Fazlur Rehman also remarked that there is a mafia in the country that opposes religion. While they respect other religions, he stressed that the same respect must be given to the Prophet (PBUH) and the Holy Quran. He emphasized that defamation should not be protected under any circumstances.