Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) Emir Hafiz Naeemur Rehman announced a nationwide strike on August 28, condemning the current government’s handling of inflation, electricity bills, and oppressive taxes.
Addressing a press conference in Karachi, Hafiz Naeem criticised both the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) for their perceived failures in addressing the country’s economic woes.
The JI emir accused these political parties of leading the country into economic distress, stating that Nawaz Sharif’s recent announcement to lower electricity prices in Punjab for just two months was insufficient and discriminatory.
He argued that if electricity can be made cheaper in Punjab, the same relief should be extended to Sindh.
Mr Rehman highlighted Karachi's significant contribution to the national economy, noting that the city pays over 50% of Pakistan's taxes. He questioned why residents of Karachi should not benefit from reduced electricity costs, given their substantial tax contributions.
Hafiz Naeem also fired a broadside at the Sindh government for not passing on any relief to its citizens despite receiving substantial funds from the federal government.
Rehman also aimed at K-Electric, accusing the utility of exacerbating electricity costs.
He suggested that the government should eliminate K Electric’s role in electricity distribution and provide power directly to Karachi residents.
In his demand to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the JI emir called for immediate action to address rising inflation and make necessary adjustments to electricity tariffs.
He emphasised the growing frustration among traders and the salaried class over the high cost of living and electricity. He also urged the government to reconsider its stance on capacity payments to Independent Power Producers (IPPs).
Reflecting on the current economic situation, Rehman criticized the government’s use of taxpayer money for advertisements while the populace struggled with high LPG prices and other economic hardships.
He reiterated that Jamaat-e-Islami would continue its resistance and demands until their agreement with the government is fully honoured.
The announcement of the nationwide strike comes amid Nawaz Sharif’s recent promise to provide a Rs14 per unit relief on electricity bills for those consuming up to 500 units in Punjab, a measure that Rehman dismissed as inadequate and too limited in scope.
