ISLAMABAD: Senior Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI) leader Hafiz Hamdullah has categorically ruled out the possibility of an alliance with the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), stating that the PTI leadership has failed to address the grievances raised by JUI over the past three months and lacks the internal unity necessary for meaningful political engagement.
Speaking during a televised interview on a private TV channel, Hafiz Hamdullah emphasized that although dialogue with political opponents is part of democratic conduct, PTI has shown little seriousness in bridging differences with JUI. “More than three months have passed, and PTI has not addressed JUI’s concerns. There is a clear trust deficit within their leadership,” he remarked.
Hamdullah pointed to the incarceration of a large number of PTI leaders as another barrier to political cooperation. “The majority of their leadership is in jail. In such circumstances, how can we form any kind of alliance?” he questioned.
He stated that while JUI is open to issue-based collaboration within Parliament when necessary, there will be no formal political alliance between the two parties at this point. “We can go issue-to-issue in Parliament, if it is necessary, but beyond that, we are not on the same page,” he clarified.
Hafiz Hamdullah also spoke about the recent central council meeting of JUI, which saw the participation of thousands of party members. He reiterated the party’s unwavering support for the Palestinian cause and announced a “million march” in Balochistan scheduled for May 15 to demonstrate solidarity with Palestinians.
Further commenting on internal party discipline, Hamdullah revealed that JUI would issue show-cause notices to members who voted against the party line in the assemblies. He asserted that disciplinary measures were essential for maintaining ideological and organizational cohesion.
Regarding broader opposition unity, Hafiz Hamdullah stated that JUI is not currently in favour of forming any opposition alliance. “We are not in favour of an opposition alliance at this time. The final decision on this matter will rest with our Central Executive Committee,” he said.
The statement comes amid growing speculation about opposition realignments and shifting political strategies ahead of potential legislative and street movements.
