QAZI SHOAIB KHAN
ATTOCK, JAN 26 /DNA/ – Former Ameer of Jamaat-e-Islami Pakistan, Siraj-ul-Haq, stated that over the past 22 years, governments have failed to make serious efforts to secure the release of Dr. Aafia Siddiqui, who has been imprisoned in the U.S. since 2003. He criticized the Pakistan Muslim League (Q), Pakistan People’s Party (PPP), Pakistan Muslim League (N), Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), four caretaker governments, and the current coalition government of PDM for their negligence. He expressed these views during his Friday sermon at Jamia Masjid Dar-ul-Islam Colony in Attock, media interactions, the inauguration of the operation theater at Al-Khidmat Medical Center, and the graduation ceremony of Quranic studies students at Jamia Tafheemat-e-Islamia. Prominent attendees included Ameer Jamaat-e-Islami Attock Sardar Amjad Ali Khan, President Jamia Tafheemat-e-Islamia Maulana Jabir Ali Khan, Principal Maulana Naeemullah, and others. Students from various parts of Pakistan who completed their Quranic education were also honored. Siraj-ul-Haq criticized former U.S. President Joe Biden, who released 800 prisoners before leaving office, stating that even the last Afghan prisoner has been freed, but the Pakistani government has failed to secure Dr. Aafia Siddiqui’s release. He mentioned reports that the U.S. seeks the release of Dr. Shakeel Afridi in exchange for Dr. Aafia Siddiqui and stated that if releasing Afridi would free an innocent sister, it should be considered. He emphasized the need to transform Pakistan into a true Islamic state and criticized the law and order situation in the country, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. He condemned the failure of the government to provide security and expressed concerns about worsening conditions, warning of dire consequences if stability is not restored. He also highlighted the severe economic challenges facing the country, including inflation and unemployment, which have made life unbearable for the common man. He condemned reliance on IMF loans and the imposition of Western culture. He expressed frustration over the lack of progress in implementing an interest-free economic system and the neglect of merit in governance. Siraj-ul-Haq condemned the negligence in addressing the plight of Dr. Aafia Siddiqui and criticized the disconnect between religion and politics. He called on people to choose righteous leaders through their votes and warned of accountability in the hereafter for voting for corrupt individuals. He also expressed concern about the deteriorating situation in Kurram Agency, where innocent people have been killed and displaced. He blamed both provincial and federal governments for the crisis. He urged for reforms in Pakistan’s election commission to make it financially and administratively independent, drawing comparisons to India’s robust election system. He reiterated that transparent elections and justice-based governance are crucial for Pakistan’s future. He concluded by highlighting Jamaat-e-Islami’s contributions, including establishing welfare projects like hospitals, schools, and technical colleges, despite a lack of electoral support. He urged the public to support the party for the betterment of society.
