ISLAMABAD: Farrukh Khokhar, son of late Taji Khokhar, on Friday formally joined Jamiate Ulema-i-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F), though his family members are predominantly affiliated with Pakistan People’s Party (PPP).

The move also marks a policy shift by the JUI-F, opening its door to non-Pakhtoons as well as non-Deobandis.

An event in this regard was held at ‘Dera Taji Khokhar’ near the old Islamabad airport which was attended by JUI–F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman, who welcomed Khokhar into the party-fold.

Maulana said that Farrukh’s inclusion would further strengthen JUI’s presence in Islamabad and Rawalpindi.

“This decision reflects the growing political strength of the party in the twin cities, we welcome Farrukh Khokhar’s support and believe it will add momentum to our movement,” JUI-F chief stated.

Maulana reiterated his party’s resolve to transform Pakistan into an Islamic democratic state, and said JUI-F had always struggled to make the Constitution of the country truly ‘Islamic’ and had raised voice at every plateform for the protection of religious values.

He alleged that some elements in the country were working to weaken Pakistan’s Islamic identity but they would fail in their designs as the country was founded in the name of Islam.

“There will be no compromise on our ideological foundations,” he declared.

Maulana also criticised the government for poor economy and the rising inflation.

“People can no longer afford to live a decent life,” he said and added the neighbouring countries were advancing while Pakistan faces economic collapse,” he said.

Addressing the gathering, Farrukh Khokhar lauded the political vision and leadership qualities of Maulana Fazlur Rehman, particularly citing the JUI-F chief’s passionate stance on the Khatm-i-Nabuwwat issue.

Mr Khokhar said that although his family had a political background and his father was affiliated with the PPP, he was personally inspired by Maulana’s commitment to Islamic values and national integrity.

“I was deeply impressed by Maulana Fazlur Rehman’s views about Khatm-i-Nabuwwat, as well as his support for the Pakistan Army during the war with India that left a strong impact on me,” Khokhar said.

Published in Dawn, July 19th, 2025