Protests Loom: JI Chairman Warns of More Demonstrations: The Amir of Jamaat-e-Islami, Hafiz Naeem-ur-Rehman, has issued a strong warning that if urgent demands for inflation are not granted, protests will spread to Karachi, Peshawar, and Quetta within two days.
During a news conference during the current sit-in at Liaquat Bagh Chowk in Rawalpindi, Hafiz Naeem described the protest, which is now in its fourth day, as a reflection of the public’s tenacity and perseverance. He highlighted the impact of high power costs and the government’s failure to address this issue.
Despite restrictions in Lahore, many women would attend the demonstration. The government, controlled by a single family, was blamed for erecting barriers and worsening the situation.
Hafiz Naeem criticized unfair IPP agreements, noting 70-80% are idle due to contract issues, with the government owning 52%.
He sought a forensic examination of IPPs and the elimination of power charges, citing exorbitant bill taxes. He argued that power rates should reflect actual generation costs.
People called for abolishing government benefits, questioning why WAPDA officers and other authorities receive free energy and gasoline. Naeem proposed 1300cc cars for top officials, citing Junejo’s 1000cc policy. He sought a forensic examination of IPPs and the elimination of capacity charges, citing exorbitant bill taxes. He argued that power rates should be based on actual manufacturing costs.
Naeem called for removing petrol charges and tariffs on essential items like wheat, sugar, and pulses, which harm industries and boost unemployment. He urged political parties to unite and focus on government actions rather than internal disputes.
He condemned the government’s compliance with IMF demands and lavish spending, suggesting that talks with China might resolve issues peacefully due to China’s longstanding support for Pakistan. supernews
Iqra Khan