ISLAMABAD – The Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) has questioned Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) intentions regarding a possible political alliance. This concern follows reports that PTI is reaching out to the establishment while also seeking support from opposition parties.
Speaking to the media on Friday, JUI-F Senator Kamran Murtaza said his party has serious reservations. He noted that if PTI wants to build a party alliance with JUI-F, it must clarify its alleged contacts with powerful quarters.
Senator Murtaza stated that all political dialogue should take place under the banner of the joint opposition platform. He stressed the need for clarity and understanding if both sides are to move forward with any form of coalition.
The JUI-F leader pointed to a statement by PTI’s Humayun Mohmand, who denied that his party was in contact with the establishment. Still, Murtaza insisted that PTI leader Asad Qaiser must come forward and explain the party’s position.
“We don’t oppose PTI’s outreach to the establishment,” Senator Murtaza said. “But if they are doing that while also trying to form a political alliance with us, then we may reconsider our position,” he added.
These remarks came after PTI Senator Azam Swati openly said that he has begun communication with the establishment. According to Swati, he is doing so with the full approval of PTI founder Imran Khan. Swati also revealed plans to meet a “special personality” next Wednesday.
Swati spoke on a private TV channel and said that after his upcoming meeting, he would be in a better position to share the next steps. He further said that former President Dr. Arif Alvi and a few others would join him in this initiative. “I informed Dr. Alvi that I have a meeting this Wednesday. I want him and other friends to be part of this process,” Swati stated.
Giving details of his meeting with Imran Khan, Swati claimed that Khan allowed him to open dialogue with the establishment. However, he denied any suggestion of a secret deal.
While these backdoor talks are in progress, PTI is also continuing efforts to form a political partnership with JUI-F. The two parties, despite their rocky past, have found common ground after the disputed February 8 elections.
Both PTI and JUI-F believe those elections were rigged. Since then, they have held several meetings and discussed forming an anti-government joint front to challenge the PML-N-led coalition in the Centre.
However, friction remains. The two parties have yet to settle their disagreements or finalize any framework for a formal coalition. The situation remains fluid, with both sides watching each other’s moves carefully.
