Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman on Friday issued a stark warning that his party will oppose any legislative changes, including the proposed 27th Constitutional Amendment or modifications to Article 243, if they negatively affect the country’s political system, constitution, or democratic foundations.

Speaking to reporters, the JUI-F leader clarified his party’s position on potential constitutional alterations. ‘If the proposed amendment to Article 243 carries administrative changes only, we have no objection. But if it harms constitutional principles or democratic values, we will firmly oppose it,’ he stated.

Maulana Fazlur Rehman drew a firm line on the issue of provincial rights, cautioning that any attempt to roll back the powers devolved under the 18th Amendment would be met with strong resistance. ‘The powers granted to provinces through the 18th Amendment cannot be withdrawn,’ he asserted.

The JUI-F chief also addressed the financial autonomy of the provinces, referencing the National Finance Commission (NFC) Award. He emphasized that while the constitution permits an increase in the provincial share, it offers no provision for its reduction. ‘If there is any attempt to deprive provinces of their rightful share, we have made a principled decision to resist it,’ he added.

Stressing the need for inclusive decision-making, Fazlur Rehman remarked that the perspective of a single institution should not be allowed to dominate the national discourse. He called for a unified approach, saying, ‘Parliament and all relevant stakeholders must come together to form a collective national stance.’

Recalling previous legislative processes, he highlighted the successful coordination among political parties during the 26th Amendment, which persuaded the government to retract 35 contentious clauses. “The 18th Amendment was not a confrontation between any parties – it was a consensus effort by all,’ he noted.

On a different note, when asked about the ongoing Pakistan-Afghanistan talks in Istanbul, Fazlur Rehman expressed optimism for a favorable resolution. ‘I am waiting for good news. Both are neighboring countries, and the prosperity of both lies in the establishment of peace,’ he concluded.