The Role of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (F) in the Parliament of Pakistan (2018-2024)

Abstract

This study examines the role of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (F) in the Pakistani Parliament from 2018 to 2024. JUI-F, being one of the major religious political parties, its role in parliament is under researched. This study attempts to fill the gap by closely examining the legislative activity, parliamentary speeches, and JUI-F's oversight activity. Qualitative research design was employed whereby parliamentary records, party documents, and interviews were scrutinized. The results show that the JUI-F played a significant role in determining the parliamentary agenda, particularly with regard to issues of Islamic ideology, national security, and social justice. The JUI-F members of parliament were keenly participating in debates, introducing bills, and oversight roles. However, the study discovers that the JUI-F was not able to translate its parliamentary power into effective policy outputs. The party's poor representation in key parliamentary committees disadvantaged its ability to influence policy decisions. Despite these drawbacks, JUI-F's parliamentary role has significant implications for Pakistan's politics. The findings of this research enhance our understanding of the complex nature of religious politics in Pakistan. The research is stressing the importance of further investigation on the representation of religious political parties in Pakistan's parliament and their role in shaping the governance and policy-making system of the country.

Keywords: Pakistan, JUI, Politics, Religious Party, Democracy