Azma Bokhari Criticises Fazlur Rehman Over Remarks

LAHORE: Punjab Minister for Information and Culture Azma Bokhari on Thursday responded to JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman’s recent statement, describing it as non-serious and unbecoming of a senior politician. She said supporting the supporters of terrorists was regrettable and that he should express regret over his remarks.

Bokhari said Rehman should refrain from mocking martyrs and state institutions. She recalled that his previous statement had also drawn strong public anger.

On the deprivations of the former FATA, she said questions should be put to the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) rather than the federation, noting that the party has ruled Khyber Pakhtunkhwa for 13 years. She added that questions about the former FATA’s funds and development work should also be directed at the PTI founder and his party.

The minister noted that Rehman and his party have themselves been targeted in terrorist attacks several times, and therefore he should exercise caution while making such statements. She asked who he was trying to please through such remarks.

“Do politics, but avoid mocking institutions and martyrs,” she said. She added that serious questions have long been raised about the PTI’s policies concerning terrorist groups.

On the imposition of Governor’s rule in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Bokhari said the federation had not taken the step out of desire but because of the PTI government’s policies regarding terrorists in the province.

She said Rehman’s recent statement had caused strong public anger across the country. A mature politician is not expected to make irresponsible statements, she said, adding that he should reconsider his words and stance.