JUI-F chief accepts invitation as PM discusses easing tensions between federal and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa governments
ISLAMABAD, PAKISTAN — WEB DESK: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has invited Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman to the Prime Minister’s House for a meeting, as the government seeks to ease tensions between the federal and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa governments.
According to a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office on Saturday, October 10, Shehbaz telephoned Fazlur Rehman and congratulated him on performing Umrah. The prime minister also invited the JUI-F chief for a meeting, which he accepted.
The meeting is expected to take place soon, although an exact date and time have not been officially announced.
Shehbaz, Fazlur Rehman discuss easing tensions
During the telephone conversation, the two leaders discussed ways to reduce tensions between the federal government and the PTI-led administration in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, according to the Prime Minister’s Office.
The contact comes amid heightened political tensions surrounding PTI’s protest march and disagreements over counterterrorism policy and provincial security.
The federal government has criticised the PTI-led provincial administration over its handling of security, while the party has continued its political mobilisation.
Political dialogue amid federal-provincial differences
The proposed meeting comes as political leaders seek ways to address differences between the federal government and the KP administration.
Fazlur Rehman has recently held contacts with government and opposition representatives amid efforts to find a political way forward. However, the extent of his potential role in facilitating dialogue between the parties remains subject to further developments.
The latest telephone conversation provides an opportunity for further discussions, but no agreement or specific outcome from the proposed meeting has been announced.
Meeting expected soon
The Prime Minister’s Office confirmed that Fazlur Rehman had accepted Shehbaz Sharif’s invitation and that the meeting was expected to take place soon.
The discussions will take place against the backdrop of continuing disagreements over the security situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, political protests and relations between Islamabad and the provincial government.
Further details about the meeting’s agenda and any decisions reached are awaited.
