ISLAMABAD: On Saturday, President Asif Ali Zardari visited the residence of Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman, fueling speculation about the coalition government’s plans to introduce key legislation in the upcoming sessions of parliament.
Zardari, known for his strategic political moves, met with the JUI-F leader shortly after reports emerged that Maulana Fazl had reached an agreement with the opposition PTI to jointly challenge the government in parliament. The meeting, also attended by Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and close aides of Maulana Fazlur Rehman, focused on the “overall current political situation,” according to a brief statement from the President Secretariat.
Political analysts view this meeting as significant, especially with National Assembly and Senate sessions scheduled for Monday and Tuesday, respectively. Observers suggest that Zardari might have sought to dissuade Maulana Fazl from launching any agitation against the government, possibly making some offers in return.
The relationship between Zardari and Maulana Fazlur Rehman dates back to their collaboration in the ousting of PTI’s government in April 2022. However, tensions between JUI-F and the ruling coalition surfaced after the February 8 elections, with Maulana Fazl accusing PPP and PML-N of election manipulation.
The meeting between Zardari and Fazlur Rehman follows a recent discussion between the JUI-F leader and a PTI delegation about future cooperation. PTI leader Asad Qaiser claimed that both sides agreed to collaborate on a case-by-case basis to block any “controversial” legislation the government might introduce.
Despite media speculation that the government might be planning significant legislative moves, including potentially extending the tenure of Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa, Federal Information Minister Ataullah Tarar dismissed these claims. He clarified that the upcoming parliamentary sessions are routine and that there are no plans to introduce legislation concerning the judiciary or judicial seniority rules.
Separately, the Nawab of Bahawalpur, Salahuddin Ahmed Abbasi, and his son met with President Zardari at the President’s House, where they discussed national issues and the development of southern Punjab. Zardari emphasized the need for all political parties and stakeholders to unite for the country’s progress.
