LAHORE: Jamaat-i-Islami (JI) Emir Hafiz Naeemur Rehman has said there is an urgent need for a national dialogue to address the country’s deepening crises.

He said all political parties and institutions must operate strictly within the constitutional framework. He warned that whenever constitutional boundaries were violated, unrest and instability increased.

Mr Rehman expressed these views while speaking to the media after offering condolences to PTI leader Hammad Azhar over the passing of his father, senior politician Mian Muhammad Azhar, in Lahore on Thursday.

The JI leader said, ”We must collectively decide whether the country should continue down the current path or move toward genuine improvement. The Constitution clearly outlines a framework for every party and institution -- it must be respected by all.”

Paying tribute to late Mian Azhar, Mr Rehman said that he was a dignified and principled political figure. He said that Mian Azhar maintained decorum and tolerance in his political conduct -- qualities that were especially needed in today’s polarised environment.

“Political differences should not turn into personal hatred. The politics of civility, tolerance, and mutual respect is the only way to overcome our challenges,” Rehman added.

He recalled that Mian Azhar had long-standing ties with the JI and also enjoyed a personal relationship with late Qazi Hussain Ahmad.

Published in Dawn, July 25th, 2025