News Desk: Jamaat-i-Islami (JI) Emir Hafiz Naeemur Rehman has warned of a nationwide wheel-jam strike if the federal government fails to approve measures aimed at reducing the economic burden on the public.
Rehman said the JI would begin formal negotiations with the government on Monday, while its ongoing sit-ins would continue across the country. He warned that failure to address the party’s demands could lead to an escalation of its protest campaign.
Speaking at a press conference in Islamabad, the JI chief demanded concrete steps to provide economic relief, reduce the petroleum levy and lower electricity costs.
The warning came after a nationwide JI protest earlier this week. Six party workers were arrested in Karachi over allegations of burning motorcycles and tyres during the demonstration. The JI has distanced itself from the alleged acts of violence.
The government and JI have agreed to establish committees to examine proposals for reducing the petroleum levy and providing relief to consumers.
Hafiz Naeemur Rehman Criticises Government
Rehman criticised the government and bureaucracy over what he described as excessive taxation, poor governance and unnecessary spending. He argued that ordinary citizens were being forced to bear the consequences of administrative inefficiency.
He said the JI’s previous 21-day protest campaign had generated pressure for reductions in electricity prices and other measures aimed at easing public hardships.
The JI emir claimed Pakistan’s total debt had risen to around Rs110 trillion, while annual debt-servicing costs had reached nearly Rs8 trillion.
He also called for a reduction in the central bank’s policy rate, arguing that monetary easing could help create fiscal space for the government to withdraw the petroleum levy.
JI Announces 50 Million-Signature Campaign
Rehman also announced a nationwide 50 million-signature campaign to mobilise public support for economic and political reforms.
The campaign will focus on reducing the financial burden on citizens, strengthening local governments and lowering the price of bread to Rs10, he said.
The JI leader further criticised governance in Sindh and expressed concern over unresolved issues in Karachi, saying political parties had failed to adequately address the city’s problems.
The party has vowed to continue its nationwide mobilisation and increase pressure on the government until its demands for public economic relief are addressed.
