PDM 2.0? Ex-PM Imran seeks former rival’s support for ‘anti-govt movement’ in Pakistan

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder and ex-premier Imran Khan, currently detained in Adiala Jail, has reached out to Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman, seeking support for a potential nationwide anti-government movement.

Sources confirmed that PTI aims to unify opposition parties against recent legislation and the controversial 26th Constitutional Amendment, sparking talk of a collaborative movement similar to the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) – a movement launched by opposition parties against Imran Khan’s government.

“Imran Khan wants a direct dialogue with Maulana Fazlur Rehman to clear up any misunderstandings,” said a source close to the matter. “He appreciates Maulana’s stance on recent legislation and seeks to consult him directly.”

While Khan’s request awaits Rehman’s decision, JUI-F sources indicate that the Maulana is currently on a 10-day trip to London, where he will participate in party events. Nawaz Sharif, president of the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), is also in London, adding an intriguing dimension to the ongoing political maneuvering.

The PTI’s efforts to build an alliance have already begun, according to Akhunzada Hussain, PTI Deputy Secretary Information and spokesperson for the Pakistan Constitution Protection Movement - an alliance founded by the PTI following the February 8 general elections.

Hussain confirmed that the PTI has reached out to the Grand Democratic Alliance (GDA), Awam Pakistan chief Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, Jamaat-e-Islami, and other parties to explore the possibility of a united front against the government.

Hussain noted that the PTI and JUI-F share similar positions on the recent legislative measures, particularly the 26th Amendment. He added: “The PTI is working to unify opposition forces, with a grand opposition meeting planned upon Maulana’s return.”

On Wednesday, PTI leaders, including former National Assembly Speaker Asad Qaiser and legal representative Faisal Chaudhry, met with Fazl to discuss his cooperation. This meeting reportedly strengthened the groundwork for future talks between the two parties.

Following the meeting, JUI-F spokesperson Aslam Ghori voiced criticism of the ruling Pakistan People's Party (PPP) and PML-N, labeling their recent actions “undemocratic”. “We reject the legislation passed with a fake mandate and demand the release of PTI founder Imran Khan,” Ghori told reporters. “The government has prioritized itself over democratic processes, and we are determined to challenge this.”

Ghori’s statement underscores the growing frustration among opposition leaders, who argue that the government has overstepped with legislation that purportedly extends its authority. He noted, “We worked to remove several problematic clauses from the 26th Amendment, but the government has continued to use others for its own benefit.”

Fazl has indicated that he will consider Khan’s request upon his return from London, after consulting with his party. If accepted, an alliance could lead to an all-parties conference (APC) in the coming weeks, potentially revitalizing Pakistan's opposition in a united front against the government.