'Bring the PM's resignation with you,' Fazl tells govt committee due to meet opposition.

SUKKUR -- Ameer Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazal (JUI-F) Maulana Fazlur Rehman on Thursday told the government's negotiation committee - due to hold talks with the opposition today (Friday) on its anti-government protest - to "bring the prime minister's resignation letter" with them when they come.

Farlur Rehman said that his anti-government protest - dubbed by the party as 'Azadi March' - is on schedule for October 31 and no change is on the cards. "A decision to take it back will only be made, if at all, by the Rehbar Committee," he said, addressing a press conference in Sukkur after a meeting between JUI-F members.

He, however, downplayed the possibility of such an outcome, expressing full confidence that the march will take place with full participation and endorsement by the nation.

The JUI-F chief reiterated the opposition's plans of showing solidarity with Kashmiris on October 27 - observed across the world by Kashmiris as Black Day. "Special programmes will be held throughout the country and a large gathering will be held in Karachi on the occasion," he said.

"The government has let down Kashmiris. Evil doers themselves are raising a hue and cry over evil." He said that all sections of society wish to participate in the march and "all parties are in agreement with us over the fact that this government that has come to power through rigging cannot be allowed to continue".

Fazlur Rehman denied that there was any unwillingness by the Rehbar Committee to meet with their government counterparts. He said that after tomorrow's meeting between the two sides, the opposition parties will hold consultations before responding to the government.

"However, what can be expected from a team headed by Pervez Khattak? His attitude and mannerisms are not conducive to holding talks."

He further criticised the government for on one hand, offering to hold talks, while on the other creating hurdles in the way of the opposition. "Shops, petrol pumps, etc., are all being made to shut down. They can do what they like. We will enter Islamabad, come what may."

Fazlur Rehman urged the opposition to "not lose their nerve" and to present a strong front against the government. "The entire nation's hopes lie with us and we must support them," he said.

Regarding former PM Mian Muhammad Nawaz Sharif's health, the JUI-F chief said that "to give someone the hardship of imprisonment...