Jamaat-e-Islami Emir Hafiz Naeemur Rehman on Sunday issued a stark warning to the government, asserting that if the promised agreement is not implemented within the stipulated 45 days, his party will escalate its protests with a nationwide wheel jam strike.
Addressing a public gathering in Lahore, Hafiz Naeem stated, “If the government fails to meet its promises, we will not hesitate to intensify our protest across the nation. The people have rallied behind our cause, and we urge them to support us in our fight for justice.”
Mr Naeem highlighted the urgency of the situation, stressing that the government’s delay in addressing key issues, including high electricity bills and inflation, is unacceptable.
He warned that Jamaat-e-Islami’s patience is wearing thin and that a nationwide wheel jam strike could be on the horizon if the agreement is not honoured.
The Jamaat-e-Islami chief also touched on international relations, advocating for improved ties with neighbouring countries and condemning the current administration's handling of foreign affairs.
He expressed concern over the plight of the missing persons in Balochistan and called for their immediate recovery.
“The current rulers are bringing disrepute to Pakistan by seeking assistance from other countries while neglecting pressing domestic issues,” Hafiz Naeem added.
He went on to say that “Jamaat-e-Islami has always stood for the rights of the people, and we expect the government to fulfil its commitments promptly.”
Earlier, on August 9, a sit-in by Jamaat-e-Islami on Murree Road concluded after 14 days, following an agreement between the party and the government.
Key points of the agreement include a commitment from the government to reduce taxes on the salaried class and lower electricity rates within the next month and a half. Additionally, an effective system of income tax targeting landlords and landholders is to be established.
Rehman criticized the government’s handling of the protest, asserting that attempts by Punjab Police to disrupt the demonstration by raiding JI workers' homes were futile. He also voiced concerns about the treatment of Balochistan’s people, labeling it as abuse and emphasizing the need for a constructive dialogue with Afghanistan.
Rehman stressed that Pakistan should aim to build strong relations with its neighbors and counter the influence of countries like India and the United States.
The sit-in began on July 26, with a large crowd gathering at I-8 on Islamabad Expressway. Hafiz Naeemur Rehman condemned the actions of Punjab Police and questioned the government's approach to handling the protest.
