Imran Khan was ousted on Gen Bajwa’s directives: Fazlur Rehman claimed

ISLAMABAD: In a recent interview, Maulana Fazlur Rehman, the Emir of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F), shed light on the intricate political landscape of Pakistan, emphasizing the importance of upholding parliamentary integrity amidst political transitions.

Fazlur Rehman revealed that the no-confidence motion which led to the ousting of former Prime Minister Imran Khan was tabled on the directives of ex-army chief General (retired) Qamar Javed Bajwa. Despite his personal reservations, Fazlur Rehman acknowledged the collective decision of the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) and its member parties, highlighting the need to avoid perceptions of favoritism.

The PDM, led by Shehbaz Sharif, successfully removed the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government in April 2022, marking a significant transition in Pakistani politics. However, Khan’s initial claims of US involvement in his removal were debunked, leading to the attribution of responsibility to General Bajwa.

Fazlur Rehman further disclosed the involvement of Lt Gen (retd) Faiz Hamid, who emphasized the importance of adhering to parliamentary procedures during the no-confidence movement. Despite initially rejecting Hamid’s directives, Fazlur Rehman acknowledged the shifting political landscape as other parties withdrew their support from the PTI-led government.

Following the February 8 elections, which did not yield a clear majority for any party, Fazlur Rehman highlighted concerns regarding electoral rigging and the credibility of the parliamentary system. Despite his decision to join parliament, Fazlur Rehman remains committed to opposition politics, advocating for accountability and transparency in government formation processes.

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Fazlur Rehman’s stance underscores the ongoing debate surrounding the legitimacy of the electoral process and the role of political institutions in shaping Pakistan’s democratic future. As the country navigates through political transitions, Fazlur Rehman’s advocacy for parliamentary integrity serves as a guiding principle for fostering accountability and transparency in governance.