PTI, JUI-F move toward broader opposition alliance

Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman and Pashtunkhwa Milli Awami Party (PkMAP) Chairman Mahmood Khan Achakzai have taken the first step towards forming a united opposition platform, with the initiative set to begin from Parliament.

Fazlur Rehman and Achakzai held their first formal meeting with opposition leaders on Thursday. Leaders of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) also participated in the discussions, bringing together different opposition groups under one platform.

Speaking to the media after the meeting, Fazlur Rehman said the participants had agreed in principle to establish a united opposition. He described Thursday’s gathering as the first sitting and said further consultations would be held before the alliance takes a final shape.

The JUI-F chief said the opposition’s joint political efforts would initially focus on Parliament. Sources said the parties have also agreed to convene a joint parliamentary party meeting on Friday to discuss the proposed opposition structure and future strategy.

Fazlur Rehman arrived at the opposition chamber with a JUI-F delegation to meet Achakzai. The two leaders later appeared together with other opposition lawmakers as consultations continued.

The meeting also covered several political issues, including the health of PTI founder Imran Khan, according to sources. Opposition leaders are expected to hold further discussions with Fazlur Rehman as part of efforts to develop a common political position.

When asked whether the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) would become part of the proposed opposition alliance, Fazlur Rehman said the party was currently part of the government. He clarified that the ongoing consultations were focused on opposition parties.

He also suggested that the possibility of holding an all-parties conference could be considered. Such a forum could provide an opportunity for different political groups to discuss issues of common concern and develop a broader political strategy.

The emerging opposition cooperation comes amid efforts by several parties to strengthen coordination inside and outside Parliament. The leaders are expected to discuss parliamentary action, political strategy and the possibility of expanding the opposition alliance in the coming days.

During the media interaction, a journalist asked Fazlur Rehman whether opposition parties would remain united only in Parliament or would also join hands on the streets.

Responding humorously, Fazlur Rehman said: “We recite Surah Fatiha and you have already reached Surah Nas.”