New CEC can’t apprehend election complexities in this age: Fazl

Expressing severe resentment over the increasing confrontation between the executive and judiciary, Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl chief Fazlur Rehman on Saturday called it harmful to the very interests of the country and the democratic process.
“Conspiracies are being hatched against democracy,” Fazl said while addressing a function arranged by JUI-F in Peshawar on Saturday. He said the conspiracies against the democratic process could be averted by holding of early elections. Fazl, however, said for such a purpose, understanding was essential between the government and opposition. Referring to ongoing hostilities between the judiciary and government, Fazl said, “Affairs are getting personal,” adding that the judiciary had become a “party”.
The JUI-F chief suggested the judiciary remain impartial. Welcoming the appointment of Justice (r) Fakharuddin G Ebrahim as the chief election commissioner, Fazl said, “It could be hard for the CEC to understand the election complications at this stage.”
He, however, said he desired impartial and transparent elections. Regarding extraordinary activism on part of certain religious-politico groups, he said, “Secret agencies are patronizing the groups involved in sectarian violence.” He said the agencies were utilizing these groups for meeting its nefarious designs. Fazl accused the establishment of creating “hurdles” for his party, saying, “The reason is clear, JUI-F’s reluctance to toe its (agencies) line.” He said the JUI-F was capable of getting rid of its rivals, but fighting the establishment was “very hard”. Expressing disappointment with the performance of the present government, Fazl said all policies and decisions were still made by corps commanders rather then governors and chief ministers. He said supplies to NATO had resumed, but the US still continued to conduct drone strikes.