KARACHI: Jamaat-i-Islami (JI) chief Hafiz Naeemur Rehman has announced nationwide demonstrations on January 31 to protest against soaring electricity bills and high tariffs.
Addressing a press conference on Sunday, he criticized the government for failing to pass on the benefits of renegotiated and canceled agreements with certain independent power producers (IPPs) to the general public.
“The JI will intensify its campaign against the government with greater determination,” he said, adding that the party would outline its next steps during the protests.
Hafiz Naeem noted that following a JI campaign, the government had renegotiated contracts with some IPPs and canceled others. However, he questioned the absence of any visible impact on electricity prices and demanded immediate reforms. He urged the government to lower electricity tariffs, reduce excessive taxes, cut the petroleum levy, eliminate privileges for the elite, and provide financial relief to the working class.
He also condemned political parties for approving a 140% salary hike for parliamentarians while a significant portion of the population—40%—struggled below the poverty line. He highlighted the burden on salaried individuals, who paid Rs243 billion in taxes within six months, with even higher targets set for the future.
Hafiz Naeem criticized the amended Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (Peca) law, stating that while fake news must be countered, political dissent should not be suppressed. He expressed support for the media's stance against the law.
In response to a question about the Feb 8 elections, he reiterated the JI’s demand for a judicial commission but opposed re-elections, arguing that this would benefit “mandate thieves.” Instead, he called for judicial decisions based on Form-45, which he described as a constitutional document.
On international issues, Hafiz Naeem urged Pakistan not to bow to pressure to recognize Israel. He emphasized the need for diplomatic efforts in support of Palestine and Kashmir, calling for Islamabad to stand with Hamas and work alongside Qatar to rebuild Gaza.
