KARACHI: Hafiz Naeem-ur-Rehman, Amir of Jamaat-e-Islami Pakistan, has called for a nationwide shutter down strike on August 28 to protest against rising inflation and high electricity tariffs, according to ARY News.
Speaking at a rally in Multan, Hafiz Naeem strongly criticized the current government for imposing severe inflation and unemployment on the public. He described the soaring electricity bills as “bombs” dropped on citizens each month and condemned the government’s failure to curb the privileges of the elite.
Hafiz Naeem announced plans for further rallies in cities such as Lahore and Peshawar, aiming to increase pressure on the government to address public grievances. He also voiced concerns about the government’s recent initiative to offer electricity tariff relief specifically for Punjab consumers, arguing that relief should be extended equally across the entire country.
Earlier in the day, former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, leader of the PML-N, announced a relief package for electricity consumers in Punjab. The package includes a reduction of Rs 14 per unit for those using up to 500 units of electricity. Sharif praised Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz for her efforts and revealed a solar panel scheme funded with Rs 700 billion to further alleviate electricity costs.
In his address, Hafiz Naeem expressed support for the traders’ community and reiterated Jamaat-e-Islami’s commitment to join the nationwide strike on August 28.
