Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) Ameer Hafiz Naeemur Rehman has issued a stark warning to the government, expressing frustration over the escalating electricity bills that have left citizens burdened and demanding immediate relief. Speaking at a protest sit-in outside the Sindh Governor House in Karachi on Monday, Rehman emphasized the urgent need for action.
Addressing a crowd of protesters, Hafiz Naeemur Rehman criticized the government’s handling of the electricity crisis and its agreements with Independent Power Producers (IPPs). He warned that if the government fails to meet the demands of the people, it risks pushing them toward extreme measures similar to those seen in Sri Lanka or Bangladesh.
“We do not seek confrontation,” Rehman said, “but we will not be forced into taking drastic actions. The government must address our concerns immediately.”
Rehman called for a comprehensive review of the agreements made with IPPs, demanding transparency regarding the terms of these deals and accountability for any financial losses incurred by the country. He also urged the government to abolish taxes on essential items such as flour, sugar, and stationery to provide immediate relief to the populace.
The JI chief pointed out inconsistencies in the government’s statements, noting that the Finance Minister and Chairman of the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) have provided conflicting information, which he believes is causing confusion among the people.
In response to the ongoing crisis, Jamaat-e-Islami presented a list of ten demands to the government and sought a formal guarantee from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. They insisted that any agreements reached must be endorsed by the Prime Minister himself.
The ten demands outlined by Jamaat-e-Islami include:
- Abolition of the Petroleum Development Levy: Rehman called for the removal of this levy, which he argues is contributing to the rising costs of living.
- 20% Reduction in Prices: The party demanded a 20% reduction in the prices of food commodities, electricity, and gas tariffs to alleviate the financial strain on citizens.
- Renegotiation with IPPs: They urged the government to renegotiate agreements with IPPs, specifically challenging the end clauses related to payments in US dollars.
- Reduction in Taxes: A reduction in taxes on agriculture and industrial sectors was requested to boost economic activity and support local industries.
- Incentives for Industrial Sector: Rehman called for incentives to be provided to the industrial sector, trade, and investment to stimulate economic growth.
- Reversal of Tax Increases on Salaried Class: The party demanded the reversal of recent tax increases on the salaried class and the imposition of taxes on the privileged class.
- Cut in Non-Development Expenses: A 35% reduction in non-development expenses was proposed to redirect resources towards essential services and development projects.
- Abolition of Education-Related Taxes: The JI demanded the removal of all taxes on stationery and other educational materials to ease the financial burden on families with school-going children.
The Jamaat-e-Islami leaders have made it clear that their demands reflect the urgent needs of the people and that the government’s delayed response is unacceptable. The party’s call for immediate action and transparency highlights the increasing pressure on the government to address the escalating economic challenges faced by ordinary citizens.