Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) chief Hafiz Naeemur Rehman has warned that the government will be held responsible if the Rawalpindi agreement is not implemented within 16 days. He also cautioned Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif not to complain about the party’s next steps.
Speaking at a workers’ convention and membership drive inauguration in Gujranwala on Friday, Hafiz Naeem said, “The public will no longer bear the burden of government luxuries and Independent Power Producers (IPPs).” He emphasised that JI is fighting for the rights of the people and warned authorities not to obstruct their path.
Consultations are ongoing with traders for a potential three-day nationwide strike, which would see the entire country shut down, he added. He credited JI for any relief provided in Punjab and demanded a uniform electricity tariff across Pakistan, urging the government to curb its privileges and extravagance.
Hafiz Naeem accused IPPs of three major frauds, claiming, “First, the agreements were flawed; second, they’re charging for electricity not being produced; and third, they aren’t paying taxes on the money they receive.”
He criticised past governments, including those led by PML-N, PPP, and PTI, for protecting IPPs, stating that “they are all equally complicit in this looting.”
The JI leader also announced the expansion of the “Haq Do Awam Ko” (Give People Their Rights) campaign, with a target of 5 million new members. “We have launched membership camps nationwide, and we are receiving overwhelming support. Our doors are open to anyone willing to fight for public rights and the establishment of an Islamic system,” he said.
Hafiz Naeem condemned rising utility costs, noting increased electricity tariffs, gas prices, and taxes on petrol. “When asked about various taxes in electricity bills, the government has no answers. How is there a TV tax in a mosque’s electricity bill?”
He accused the government of following IMF orders and warned that if the public doesn’t resist, “they will continue looting the nation.”
Hafiz Naeem further criticised the government’s spending, saying, “While they claim there’s no money for public relief, billions are being spent on new vehicles for bureaucrats. It’s a tragedy that people are dying of hunger while bureaucrats enjoy new cars.”
He thanked the people and traders of Gujranwala for a successful strike and urged them to join JI. “If we unite, we will force the government to its knees,” he declared.
