Maulana Fazlur Rehman, chief of the Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F), has called on the Pakistani parliament to initiate dialogue with the people of Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) to address escalating security issues in these regions.
Fazl’s appeal comes in the wake of a series of deadly terrorist attacks in Balochistan on August 26 and growing discontent over enforced disappearances. The number of terrorist attacks nationwide surged to 59 in August, up from 38 in July, with Balochistan and KP being the hardest hit, according to the Pak Institute for Peace Studies (PIPS).
Speaking in the National Assembly, Fazl emphasized that engaging with local communities could help restore stability. He criticized the government’s handling of the unrest, claiming that armed groups are now effectively controlling parts of Balochistan and KP, imposing taxes, and patrolling the streets with advanced weaponry.
Fazl also expressed frustration with the parliament’s lack of serious action, and criticized both the ruling and opposition benches for their frequent and unproductive conflicts. He suggested that political leaders are being sidelined and called for greater empowerment of experienced politicians.
On the issue of missing persons, Fazl stressed the need for transparency from the government about the status of individuals who have been missing for years. He argued that people have the right to know the whereabouts of their loved ones and asserted that resources should be fairly distributed according to the Constitution.
In his address, Fazl also voiced concerns about the impact of terrorism on development projects under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and criticized recent government decisions to close departments as part of a “rightsizing” plan, which he believes will exacerbate unemployment.
Fazl’s comments underline the urgent need for comprehensive government action and genuine dialogue to address the security and political challenges facing Pakistan.
