The Maulana matrix

Maulana Fazl manages to bring together factions that historically stand opposed

Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) Chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman gestures during a gathering. — APP/File

Whether one accepts it or not, Maulana Fazlur Rehman stands as an uncrowned king, an unparalleled political force in Pakistan. Both the government and the opposition find themselves seeking his cooperation and patronage.

As a seasoned politician, he commands an aura of authority that transcends party lines, ideological divides, and even rival religious schools of thought.

Remarkably, the Maulana has managed to bring together factions that historically stand opposed. The Barelvi school of thought, traditionally at odds with his Deobandi roots, has found common ground under his political umbrella.

The late Maulana Shah Ahmed Noorani’s son, Anas Noorani, now proudly stands with him, as does Mufti Munib-ur-Rehman, a grand figure among the Barelvis, particularly on contentious issues like the Madaris Reform Bill.

The Maulana’s influence extends beyond national politics – into areas of diplomacy and conflict resolution. When the state needed a credible intermediary to communicate with the Taliban, the Maulana was the obvious choice.

Trusted for his shared ideological lineage and deep understanding of their ethos, he was sent to Afghanistan to negotiate during critical stalemates.

Similarly, when tensions with India required delicate handling, the state relied upon the Maulana’s sagacity. His rapport with Indian political and religious leaders, including the Indian National Congress and the Ulema of Deoband, made him a unique conduit for dialogue.

Although these efforts did not yield the desired outcomes – perhaps due to external factors beyond his control – they underscored his unparalleled position in matters of diplomacy.

Recognising his diplomatic prowess, the state appointed Maulana Fazlur Rehman as the head of both the Kashmir Committee and the Foreign Affairs Committee. In these roles, he showcased his ability to navigate complex international issues.

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His tenure may not have resolved the Kashmir conflict, but his involvement lent a spiritual and ideological weight to Pakistan’s stance. Moreover, his influence on global politics is evident in the growing tilt toward conservative ideologies worldwide. The rise of the Right in the West could, arguably, be seen as an extension of his ideological reach.

Maulana’s aptitude for deal-making and backdoor negotiations is legendary. During the constitutional amendment processes and other critical legislative debates, his residence in Islamabad became the epicentre of political activity. Politicians from all sides, including members of the PTI – a party that once mocked him with derogatory nicknames such as Maulana Diesel – flocked to seek his advice and support.

And MashaAllah, the Maulana stands as a paragon of selflessness, free from any trace of greed for power or desire for wealth. The allegations against him – whether they concern diesel permits, an insatiable ambition to rule the state, monopolise Pakhtunkhwa, or control all madaris – are, of course, baseless fabrications. His impeccable character soars above such worldly temptations.

Despite being legally entitled to four wives under Islamic law, the Maulana, in his infinite humility and restraint, has graciously settled for just one. This noble choice sets him apart from many of his esteemed colleagues in the ulema circle. Truly, Maulana’s life is a testament to moderation and virtue, untouched by the fleeting lures of this material world.

In a striking reversal, PTI leaders who had derided him in the past are now regular visitors, demonstrating his ability to turn adversaries into allies. At the height of these negotiations, the Maulana’s wisdom and strategic acumen guided the PTI on political strategy, a remarkable testament to his central role in shaping Pakistan’s political landscape. This unique ability to remain indispensable to all factions, even his staunchest critics, is what sets him apart as a political titan.

In a country where the establishment wields significant influence over political affairs, the Maulana has carved out a distinct niche. While most politicians tread cautiously around the establishment, he has shown an uncanny ability to engage with it on his own terms.

At times, he openly criticises its overreach, and at others, he maintains cordial ties with the top brass. This balancing act underscores his political shrewdness and fearless approach.

Maulana Fazlur Rehman’s political prowess lies in his ability to position himself at the centre of Pakistan’s power dynamics. Whether it is the ruling party or the opposition, all roads eventually lead to his doorstep. His unmatched skill in navigating complex political landscapes ensures that he remains relevant and influential, regardless of the prevailing political winds.

For Pakistan, the Maulana presents a paradoxical reality. If denied power, he has the option to align himself with his ideological brethren, such as the Taliban, potentially elevating himself to the status of an international Deobandi figure. If granted the leadership role he aspires to, he claims he could resolve Pakistan’s myriad problems swiftly.

The Maulana’s oratory skills are another cornerstone of his political success. His ability to spin narratives to suit his agenda is unmatched. For instance, when he supported General Pervez Musharraf’s regime by endorsing the Legal Framework Order (LFO), he used his rhetorical brilliance to present one of the most autocratic documents in Pakistan’s history as a beacon of democracy. This ability to reshape public perception is a testament to his intellectual dexterity.

The Maulana’s greatness seems predestined. He was born great, achieved greatness, and continues to have greatness thrust upon him by the dynamics of Pakistan’s politics. His rise to the highest office in the land appears inevitable, despite the obstacles posed by domestic and international conspiracies. Whether it is the ‘Jewish lobby’ or the Christian West, Maulana remains undeterred by the forces that oppose him.