Jamaat-e-Islami Pakistan Emir Hafiz Naeem ur Rehman criticised the government policy of coercion instead of dialogue with the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC). Addressing the JI Shura meeting at Mansoorah, Lahore, he warned that government approach on AJK was increasing public frustration. He described the AJK situation as deeply troubling.
The JAAC has already offered the role of mediator to the JI Emir. Rehman over the past week has held meetings with leaders of various political parties. He said he held meetings to seek suggestions for resolving the crisis that has gripped Azad Jammu and Kashmir for more than a month.
Over the past week, he repeatedly urged the government to initiate a dialogue process. However, the government has yet to respond to his calls.
Meanwhile, the JAAC, which the government has declared a proscribed organisation, announced on Thursday that it would resume its long march on Muzaffarabad on July 15 if its demands remain unmet.
The democratic process had been weakened despite the initial acceptance of several demands raised by the JAAC, he said. The JI leader added that subsequent political developments had further aggravated the situation. These developments, he said, included an overnight change in the AJK legislative assembly. And the appointment of a prime minister lacking broad political backing, he added.
“JI acted responsibly on the issue rather than engaging in political point-scoring. We will continue to formulate its policy through consultation,” he told the Shura members.
Male and female members of the Shura from across Pakistan are attending the two-day session. The JI Shura, according to party spokesperson, will formulate a comprehensive strategy and make important decisions on public issues. Rehman stressed that strengthening public outreach and expanding the JI’s influence at the grassroots level would remain a key priority.
Referring to the country’s internal situation, the JI chief expressed concern over the worsening law and order situation in Balochistan. He said the JI had made consistent efforts to contribute to stability in the province. He noted that the JI had launched its Bano Qabil programme at four locations in Balochistan. It launched the programme to provide young people with educational and professional opportunities, he said.
