FAZAL UR REHMAN IMPORTANCE IN AMENDMENT
After 2013, when the Pakistan Muslim League (PML-N) found itself in a difficult position due to the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), Nawaz Sharif lacked both street activists and the organizational strength to hold large protests in cities like Karachi, Larkana, Quetta, Islamabad, and Peshawar. It was during this time that Maulana Fazlur Rehman decided to mobilize against the PTI. From 2018 until the fall of Imran Khan’s government, Maulana Rehman was active on the streets, organizing marches and protests, keeping his workers unusually motivated. Leaders from the PML-N and the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), including Hamid Mir and other nationalist figures, participated in his rallies.The Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) was successful, and as Maulana Rehman put it, “The winter has passed, and spring has come.” However, he had no role in this spring; his former allies moved on to secure their own benefits. A seasoned politician, Maulana Rehman unexpectedly allied with the PTI, the very party he had opposed for a decade. This situation was particularly unfavorable for the PML-N. When a constitutional amendment was proposed, it became clear that the PML-N and PPP would struggle to move forward without Maulana’s support. Consequently, both parties began to engage with him, while the PTI had already recognized him as a leader. Currently, there is a ceasefire between Maulana Rehman and Imran Khan; they are avoiding confrontational language. This is a positive development, as political leaders should not descend to personal attacks; their disagreements should be based on ideology or principles. Today, whether in government or opposition, there is consensus around Maulana Rehman. He has successfully incorporated his clauses into the constitutional amendments. Now that this has been achieved, Maulana should also initiate negotiations between the establishment and Khan. While the PDM holds power, popular support still rests with Imran Khan. Unless effective negotiations occur between the establishment and Khan, the situation is unlikely to change, leading to ongoing political instability. Retaining political leadership in jail and piling on numerous cases won’t yield positive outcomes. To escape this cycle of vengeance and ego, Maulana Fazlur Rehman should be recognized as a leader and entrusted with this matter. Whatever decision emerges from this should be accepted, potentially steering Pakistan towards a more stable direction.