QUETTA: JUI-F leader Maulana Fazlur Rehman on Sunday called for new general elections in Pakistan, rejecting the February 8 polls.

During a press conference, Rehman asserted that the government lacks the authority to address their concerns and that the February 8 elections were not conducted transparently.

He demanded that voting rights be restored and new elections be held under a transparent system.

Rehman also referenced a recent US Congress resolution on Pakistan’s elections, questioning its passage and suggesting it indicates a diplomatic failure.

On Wednesday, the US House of Representatives passed Resolution HR 901, urging Pakistan to uphold democratic institutions, human rights, and the rule of law, with 368 members in favor and seven against.

The resolution, supported by 85% of the House, called on Pakistan to respect due process, freedom of the press, assembly, and speech.

Rehman criticized the current Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leadership for lacking unity and failing to form a negotiating team.

He stated that JUI-F’s stance and reservations against PTI are serious and must be addressed for a conducive environment. He also mentioned that the Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC), now home to PTI lawmakers, opposes an alliance with JUI-F.

Regarding national defense, Rehman expressed support for the Pakistan Army but opposed political interference.

He raised concerns about increased terror activities and the government’s failure to restore China’s confidence in investing in Pakistan, citing attacks on Chinese nationals.