“Electric bombs”: JI leader slams government for economic failures

RAWALPINDI: The Ameer of Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) Hafiz Naeem ur Rehman criticised the government on Wednesday, accusing it of severe economic mismanagement and failing the public.

The central leader of JI described the current financial situation as akin to “electric bombs” falling on ordinary citizens. He detailed the widespread closure of factories, rising unemployment, and financial strain on traders as signs of the government’s failure.

Read more: JI sit-in Rawalpindi: thousands attend funeral prayer in absentia for Ismail Haniyeh

Rehman also criticied the “vested interests” and independent power producers (IPPs) for exploiting the public’s resources. He alleged that these entities enriched themselves at the expense of ordinary citizens, leaving many in dire conditions.

According to Rehman, Jamaat-e-Islami has emerged as a key force against these practices and pledged to fight for citizens’ rights.

The JI leader outlined the objectives of the “Haq Do Awam” movement, which aims to lower electricity bills and refund taxes imposed on the salaried class. He also vowed to address the influence of IPPs and challenge the dominance of landlords and vassals over the public.

Rehman slammed the elites for undermining Pakistan’s institutions and sectors. He accused them of destroying institutions before suggesting their sale. He called for increased support for private sector industries and a move away from the current oppressive system.

In his address, the JI leader also addressed international issues. He mourned the assassination of Ismail Haniyeh and denouncing Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) for a lack of timely response to the situation.

He condemned the ongoing genocide in Palestine and accused Israel of receiving support from the United States, labeling both as terrorist entities.

While Rehman lambasted the US for its actions in Iraq and Afghanistan, he praised its university students for their advocacy for Palestine. He claimed both the US and Israel have suffered defeats, citing Hamas’s significant impact on “Israeli pride” on October 7.

Read more: JI’s Hafiz Naeem warns of expanding sit-in to Karachi from July 31

The central leader of JI called for the construction of the Iran-Pakistan gas pipeline and urged the government to address these issues promptly.

He warned that if no relief measures are implemented, a major protest movement would follow.