ISLAMABAD: The leader of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam – Fazl (JUI-F) has expressed support for Jamaat-e-Islami’s (JI) ongoing protest against rising inflation in Islamabad.
JUI-F leader Aslam Ghori highlighted the severe consequences faced by citizens due to the economic crisis and soaring inflation. “People are committing suicide because of inflation,” Ghori stated, emphasizing the dire situation. He condemned government raids on the homes of political workers, calling such actions a “travesty of democracy.”
Ghori argued that erecting barricades to block protesters would only escalate tensions further. Addressing the core issues behind the protest, he urged the government to reduce electricity and gas rates to alleviate the financial burden on the public. He underscored that protesting against public issues is a fundamental constitutional and democratic right of every citizen. “The matters should not be resolved through force,” Ghori asserted.
Earlier in the day, the chief of Jamaat-e-Islami Pakistan, Hafiz Naeem-ur-Rehman, declared that the party is committed to its cause and will not leave Islamabad without achieving its demands. Speaking to participants at the sit-in in Islamabad’s I-8 area, Rehman emphasized the protestors’ resolve to secure relief for the masses. Despite facing raids and arrests, he praised the large turnout, stating it reflects widespread dissatisfaction with the current system.
Rehman criticized the imposition of Independent Power Producers (IPPs) and the burden of high electricity bills, demanding their reduction. He also called for a decrease in taxes and the release of arrested workers. Rehman described the sit-in as just the beginning, aiming to bring justice to the 250 million people of Pakistan. He condemned what he termed as the government’s “fascism,” noting its heavy-handed approach towards protestors.
As the protest continues, both JUI-F and JI are united in their call for economic relief and justice for the citizens of Pakistan, highlighting the growing frustration with the current government’s policies.
