Jamaat-e-Islami chief Hafiz Naeemur Rehman has announced a Jamaat-e-Islami nationwide strike for Thursday, September 3, calling on people across Pakistan to participate in the protest.
Speaking in Karachi, Hafiz Naeem criticised the government over rising costs and what he described as policies that place an increasing financial burden on ordinary citizens. He also accused oil companies and the government of working together at the public’s expense.
The Jamaat-e-Islami chief claimed that poor people continue to face taxes while certain powerful business groups receive relief. He specifically alleged that taxes on sugar-related interests had been reduced to zero, calling for greater accountability and fairness in economic policies.
Hafiz Naeem said the party’s movement is expanding at the neighbourhood and grassroots level. He added that opposition parties are supporting the Jamaat-e-Islami nationwide strike and the wider campaign against what the party considers excessive public charges.
He also criticised electricity pricing, particularly capacity payments and fixed charges. According to Hafiz Naeem, these costs have placed additional pressure on consumers. He claimed that Rs1.7 trillion had been paid to several independent power producers (IPPs).
The Jamaat-e-Islami chief also addressed the issue of creating new provinces in Pakistan. He said new provinces should be formed according to administrative needs, public opinion and constitutional procedures rather than political interests.
Hafiz Naeem further criticised the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM), accusing it of continuing political manoeuvring over the issue for decades. The Jamaat-e-Islami nationwide strike is expected to put further focus on the party’s demands regarding electricity prices, taxation and economic relief for citizens.
