The first round of negotiations between the federal government and Jamaat-e-Islami leaders is scheduled for today (Sunday). However, Jamaat-e-Islami has firmly rejected the government’s request to end their sit-in at Liaquat Bagh, Rawalpindi.
Both parties have agreed in principle to initiate formal talks. On Saturday night, a government team led by Federal Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, along with Engineer Amir Muqam and Dr. Tariq Fazal Chaudhry, met with Jamaat-e-Islami leaders, including Vice-Amir Liaquat Baloch. The delegation invited Jamaat-e-Islami to enter into formal negotiations, which was accepted by Ameer Hafiz Naeem-ur-Rehman, who has since formed a 4-member committee for the discussions.
Despite this, Hafiz Naeem-ur-Rehman has reiterated that Jamaat-e-Islami will not back down from their demands. The sit-in at Liaquat Bagh, which began on Friday, continues as protesters call for action against inflation, rising electricity prices, and excessive taxes. Hafiz Naeem stressed that Jamaat-e-Islami will maintain their stance and will not end the sit-in until their demands are fully met.
On Friday, the sit-in saw attempts by protesters to advance to D-Chowk, resulting in the arrest of several activists. The protest remains steadfast, with Jamaat-e-Islami determined to continue until their grievances are addressed.