JUI-F Protests Alleged Surveillance and Character Assassination Campaign
Maulana Fazlur Rehman demands transparency in foreign investment deals amid political tensions.
1Nationwide Protests Erupt
The JUI-F organized widespread demonstrations across Sindh and Balochistan on Friday to protest against a perceived coordinated character assassination campaign targeting Maulana Fazlur Rehman. Party members, religious scholars, and local leaders gathered in numerous district headquarters, including Quetta and Larkana, to express solidarity and condemn the alleged targeting of their chief.
2Privacy Violations Alleged
Party speakers specifically denounced the unauthorized use of drone technology to film the private residence of Maulana Fazlur Rehman. They argued that such aerial surveillance and the subsequent circulation of footage on social media platforms constitute a severe violation of constitutional rights, personal privacy, and the fundamental sanctity of an individual's home.
3Political Vendetta Concerns
JUI-F leaders characterized recent government actions, including NAB and FIA notices issued to senior party figures like Mufti Asad Mahmood, as acts of political panic. They claimed these measures, alongside the sealing of party-affiliated shops, represent a vindictive strategy designed to intimidate the opposition for their stance on constitutional and provincial issues.
4Demands for Investigation
The party has formally demanded an immediate, transparent, and impartial investigation into the drone incident. They insisted that those responsible for the surveillance and the organized negative social media campaigns must be identified and held accountable under the law, emphasizing that political differences should be resolved through dialogue rather than personal attacks.
5Provincial Resource Disputes
The JUI-F leadership linked the current pressure on the party to their vocal opposition against alleged conspiracies to seize mineral resources from the provinces. They remain steadfast in their commitment to protecting provincial rights, the NFC Award, and the 18th Constitutional Amendment, despite what they describe as state-sponsored intimidation and harassment.
6Transparency in Investments
Addressing a gathering in Islamabad, Maulana Fazlur Rehman called for absolute transparency in all agreements involving foreign investors and Pakistan's natural resources. He stated that while the party welcomes investment from nations like China or the US, the public must be informed about contract conditions and the specific profit-sharing arrangements involved.
7Tribal District Security
The Maulana raised questions regarding security measures in tribal districts, alleging that curfews are being manipulated to facilitate illegal trade routes. He challenged the logic of imposing restrictions for two days a week, questioning why the remaining five days are treated as free from security concerns, suggesting ulterior motives behind these policies.
8Future Struggle Strategy
The JUI-F announced that it will continue its democratic, legal, and constitutional struggle through non-violent means. Following directives from the party chief, future protests will be staged on major highways and roads, signaling a sustained effort to challenge the government's policies and resist what they term as a vindictive political environment.
Original article: Dawn — JUI-F Protests Alleged Surveillance and Character Assassination Campaign