TP REPORT
CHAKDARA: Former Federal Minister for Communications and central leader of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI-F), Mufti Asad Mahmood, addressed the media at Wersak Chakdara during his visit to the residence of JUI Lower Dir Deputy General Secretary Israruddin.
Speaking to the media, Mufti Asad Mahmood said that Saudi Arabia has always stood by Pakistan, providing employment opportunities to millions and extending support during difficult times. He termed Saudi Arabia a true friend of Pakistan and expressed gratitude for its continuous assistance.
Criticizing the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government, he alleged that Rs480 billion were collected in the name of operations but were misused, calling it “historic corruption.” He added that despite such issues, the public is being misled regarding operations.
He further stated that the current global situation, including tensions related to Iran and regional instability, has created serious challenges not only for Asia but for the entire world. He remarked that even those who brought the current rulers into power are now disappointed.
Commenting on political developments, Mufti Asad Mahmood said that PTI initiated negotiations from three angles for the release of its founder Imran Khan but failed to consult key opposition leaders, including Opposition Leader Mahmood Khan Achakzai, which has delayed progress.
He announced that JUI-F will hold its central Shura meeting in Peshawar from April 4 to 6, followed by a public gathering in Mardan on April 12.
He also criticized the ongoing rift between the federal and provincial governments, stating that due to poor governance and blame-shifting, operations are still continuing in the province without clear accountability. He alleged that despite huge funds collected under relief operations, neither peace has been restored nor proper rehabilitation of affected people has been ensured.
Mufti Asad Mahmood further claimed that the KP government has failed on all fronts, highlighting that around five million children in the province are still out of school, while the health sector is also in decline. He accused the government of corruption in projects like the Billion Tree Tsunami and BRT, and said that instead of development, favoritism has increased.
He also pointed out difficulties faced by religious seminaries in registration and stated that PTI failed to secure the release of its leadership, including Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi, over the past three years.
Concluding, he reiterated Pakistan’s long-standing ties with Saudi Arabia and prayed for the country’s stability and success, acknowledging its decades-long support to Pakistan.
