JUI-F chief, opposition leaders agree to form ‘united opposition’

On Thursday, the opposition leaders Maulana Fazlur Rehman, Mehmood Khan Achakzai, and Allama Raja Nasir Abbas reached a preliminary agreement to form a united opposition alliance, as stated by a spokesperson for Tehreek Tahafuz Ayeen-i-Pakistan (TTAP). The JUI-F chief convened the opposition figures in the National Assembly and Senate chambers at Parliament House in Islamabad to discuss the country's current political landscape, parliamentary duties, cooperation among various parties, and future strategies.

Expressing concern over the government's treatment of the opposition in both chambers, the opposition leaders affirmed that democracy involves listening to and not silencing the opposition's voice.

During the meeting, participants deliberated on the policies implemented by the government, the opposition's role in parliament, and the future approach for safeguarding the Constitution and democracy. Fazlur Rehman and Achakzai also exchanged thoughts on enhancing the liaison between opposition parties and establishing a unified strategy at the parliamentary level. The opposition alliance agreed to proceed with ongoing consultations and formulate a joint course of action.

Concern was voiced over PTI founder Imran Khan's health, leading the opposition leaders to demand that he be transferred to a hospital without delay and provided with the best medical care available. PTI's Asad Qaiser was among the delegation attending the meeting, which included MNA Uthman Badini, Senator Kamran Murad, Senator Maulana Abdul Wasay, and Maulana Kamaluddin. PTI's parliamentary leader Shahid Khattak, Chief Whip Malik Amir Dogar, and several other opposition party members were also present.

Following the meeting, Maulana Fazlur Rehman declared it the first of its kind involving opposition parties, stating that they would continue to consult and form a united opposition. He added that strengthening contacts among opposition parties and finalizing a joint strategy would be priorities. Fazl suggested discussing the possibility of an All Parties Conference.

On Wednesday, PPP Chairperson Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari held a meeting with opposition leaders, urging them to take part in parliamentary committees and actively contribute to the country's political scenario. An agreement was reached to maintain communication and collaborate on legislative matters in parliament.