Khawaja Asif hits back at Fazlur Rehman over Tehran meeting

Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has rejected JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman’s criticism over a recent meeting in Tehran, saying Field Marshal Asim Munir went to help pave the way for regional peace, not to negotiate a defence agreement.

Speaking in the National Assembly on Thursday, Asif said that Pakistan’s defence was neither discussed nor was a defence pact under consideration at the meeting, adding that his participation was therefore unnecessary.

Fazlur Rehman had criticised the defence minister in the assembly a day earlier, questioning his absence while a purported defence agreement was being discussed in Tehran.

Asif said the field marshal was playing a role in promoting regional peace and urged political leaders to show a broader perspective on the matter.

Responding to Fazlur Rehman’s remarks, Asif acknowledged the JUI-F chief’s services to the country but said he should also reflect on his own political record before criticising others.

He noted that Fazlur Rehman had been part of successive governments and had cooperated with different political parties over the years.

Asif also questioned his performance as chairman of the National Assembly’s Kashmir Committee, a position he held for around 10 years.

The defence minister said he had apologised for supporting former military ruler General Zia-ul-Haq, adding that his past speeches were often brought up when he spoke in favour of the hybrid system of government.

Asif accused Fazlur Rehman of seeking to increase his political relevance, claiming that a political party had sought shelter under the JUI-F chief.

He said his party had listened patiently to Fazlur Rehman’s speech but warned that he could also discuss the positions and privileges the JUI-F leader had received during the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) government.