JI announces nationwide protests from January 17 over electricity prices

LAHORE: Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) has announced a nationwide protest on January 17 against the government’s failure to reduce electricity prices.

Addressing a press conference, JI Chief Hafiz Naeem-ur-Rehman criticised the government over the economic situation and said that while Prime Minister claims improvements in the stock market and economic indicators, the prices of essential items like petrol and food remain unaffected.

Raising concerns about Independent Power Producers (IPPs) the JI chief said that despite their closures, electricity bills have not decreased. He alleged that the government gives Rs. 2 trillion to IPPs, exempts them from income tax, and burdens salaried individuals with taxes.

He demanded reforms in agriculture, urging the government to fix support prices for sugarcane and wheat, as billions worth of crops are being wasted due to the absence of proper rates.

He also highlighted the need for fair compensation to farmers and criticised the government’s education policies, claiming that privatisation is overburdening the public while neglecting quality.

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Hafiz Naeem accused political parties, including MQM and PPP, of collaborating with the establishment for personal gain, while neglecting Karachi’s issues. He also alleged manipulation in local body elections, claiming JI’s mandate was stolen.

The JI leader expressed hope for successful negotiations between the government and PTI, emphasising that decisions should align with the Constitution and law. He also demanded the release of PTI’s founding leader, calling for transparent judicial processes.