‘I will not apologize’: Maulana Fazlur Rehman stands by controversial speech

A political controversy surrounding Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman has intensified after the veteran politician refused to apologize for remarks he made earlier this month regarding security issues and the role of state institutions.

A political controversy surrounding Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman has intensified after the veteran politician refused to apologize for remarks he made earlier this month regarding security issues and the role of state institutions. The comments have drawn criticism from government officials and prompted legal proceedings.

Addressing lawyers affiliated with his party on Sunday, Maulana Fazlur Rehman stated that he would not withdraw or apologize for his remarks. Instead, he argued that those who, in his view, launched a propaganda campaign against him should offer an apology.

The controversy stems from a speech delivered during a party rally in Kasur, where the JUI-F leader spoke about the deteriorating security situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. During the address, he questioned calls for political workers to take up arms against militant groups, saying he would not form a private force or militia.

In the same speech, Maulana Fazlur Rehman also criticized the involvement of individuals in politics while serving in uniform, suggesting that anyone wishing to participate in politics should first leave official service and contest elections as civilians. The remarks quickly became the subject of nationwide political debate.

The speech also led to legal action. On July 15, a local court in Gujranwala issued a notice to the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) in response to a petition filed over the remarks. The court has sought a reply from the agency by August 17 as the matter proceeds through legal channels.

Senior members of the federal government strongly criticized the JUI-F chief’s comments. Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said linking the sacrifices of Pakistan’s armed forces to their salaries was unfair and disrespectful to military personnel, particularly the families of fallen soldiers. He maintained that while political leaders have the right to criticize policies or procedures, they should avoid statements that undermine the sacrifices of security forces.

The controversy has sparked wider debate across Pakistan’s political landscape, with supporters arguing that Maulana Fazlur Rehman was expressing a political opinion on national security, while critics believe his remarks crossed acceptable boundaries.

As political reactions continue, the legal process is expected to determine whether any further action will be taken. The issue remains a prominent topic in national politics, highlighting ongoing tensions between opposition leaders and the government over security, governance, and political accountability.