Opposition parties, including the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI-F), have jointly demanded immediate new elections.

Following a dinner hosted by former National Assembly Speaker Asad Qaiser (PTI) at his residence in Islamabad, JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman addressed the media. He stated that the opposition alliance met to discuss the current political situation and unanimously concluded that the February 8th elections were rigged and did not reflect the true mandate of the people.

Maulana Fazlur Rehman criticized the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP), asserting that it failed to conduct fair elections. He called for the current government to resign and announce new elections immediately. He also pointed out that the Chief Election Commissioner’s constitutional term has ended and consultations for a new appointment are necessary. He further suggested that if the ECP truly believes itself to be independent and autonomous, it should resign.

He added that those lacking a public mandate have no right to cling to power and that consultations will continue to achieve their objectives.

Asad Qaiser, speaking on behalf of the PTI, expressed the alliance’s concern over the current state of affairs and their commitment to upholding the constitution and the rule of law.

Former Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi echoed these sentiments, stating that the current government was imposed on the people and that new elections are the only solution to address the country’s security and economic crises. He added that the opposition discussed political, economic, and security issues, with all parties agreeing that the current government does not represent the will of the people. The opposition also called for the release of political prisoners and the repeal of repressive laws like the Pakistan Electronic Crimes Act (PECA). They confirmed that consultations will continue.

Prior to the press conference, the opposition parties held a meeting at Asad Qaiser’s residence to discuss forming a grand alliance. The dinner was attended by prominent opposition leaders, including Maulana Fazlur Rehman, Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, and Mahmud Khan Achakzai. Subsequent discussions focused on the country’s political situation and future strategies. The meeting was attended by a wide range of opposition figures, including Maulana Fazlur Rehman, Mahmood Khan Achakzai, Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, Mustafa Nawaz Khokhar, Omar Ayub, Shibli Faraz, Asad Qaiser, Allama Nasir Abbas, and other PTI leaders.