Hafiz Naeemur Rehman announces sit-in protest in Islamabad against the rise in electricity tariffs & massive & unfair taxation measures

LAHORE, July 01 (SABAH): Jamaat-e-Islami Pakistan Emir Hafiz Naeemur Rehman has announced a sit-in protest in Islamabad against the rise in electricity tariffs and the massive and unfair taxation measures introduced in the budget.

Addressing a press conference at Mansoorah on Monday, Hafiz Naeemur Rehman stated that the sit-in would take place on July 12, demanding that the government provide relief or face resistance.

He mentioned that the JI is also considering the option of a shutter-down strike, with an announcement potentially coming soon. The sit-in is part of the “Haq Do Awam Ko” movement, and Rehman emphasized that JI is the only political party advocating for the public’s rights.

Hafiz Naeemur Rehman made the announcement after consulting with Jamaat leaders gathered in Mansoorah. JI Secretary General Ameerul Azim, Vice-Emir Dr. Usama Razi, and Secretary of Information Qaisar Sharif accompanied him during the press conference. He highlighted that prolonged load shedding and inflated bills have made life miserable for the people. He criticized the IPPs for collecting billions of rupees in capacity charges without producing electricity. He noted that K-electric is imposing long hours of load shedding in Karachi, leading to deaths from suffocation and heat waves. He said Nepra, K-electric, distribution companies, and the government developed in an “evil nexus” to target the poor. He pointed out that people are selling household items to pay heavy utility bills, and professionals and youth are fleeing the country due to uncertainty and tough conditions.

Hafiz Naeemur Rehman condemned the government for forming the budget under IMF directives, with the Prime Minister admitting this fact proudly. He expressed surprise that the rulers feel proud of their subservience to global donor instead of feeling ashamed. He criticized the ruling elite for uniting to impose heavy taxes on the people while enjoying luxuries themselves, increasing the petroleum levy, and adding a fixed tax to electricity bills. He noted that feudal lords in the country do not pay any taxes. Hafiz Naeemur Rehman concluded by stating that JI has decided not to leave people at the mercy of the situation but to lead a peaceful struggle for their rights.