Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) Emir Hafiz Naeemur Rehman have agreed to establish a joint committee to explore measures for providing fuel relief to the public and addressing concerns over the petroleum levy.
The decision followed a meeting between the two leaders at the Prime Minister’s House on October 27. Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal said the committee would include three government representatives and three members from JI to develop practical proposals for reducing the financial burden on consumers.
However, both sides still differ over how quickly the government should reduce or eliminate the petroleum levy.
Government Considers Phased Relief Measures
The government wants to examine options for expanding its existing fuel relief scheme and gradually reducing petroleum levies in a financially sustainable manner. Officials have stressed the need to balance public relief with the country’s economic requirements.
Meanwhile, JI has demanded the immediate abolition of the petroleum levy, arguing that high fuel prices and taxes place an unfair burden on middle- and lower-income households.
Hafiz Naeem said both sides had agreed that the public needed greater relief. Nevertheless, he maintained that the government must announce concrete measures rather than continue discussions without a clear outcome.
Jamaat-e-Islami Keeps Islamabad March Plan
Despite the agreement, JI has decided to continue preparations for its planned march towards Islamabad in mid-November. Hafiz Naeem said the party would keep negotiating with the government while mobilising supporters for the protest.
He added that the prime minister had requested another seven to ten days to consider the proposals. However, JI insists that the government should announce a relief package before the march begins.
The upcoming committee discussions will focus on identifying workable measures and determining how authorities can reduce fuel costs without creating additional economic pressures. The outcome could shape the next phase of negotiations between the government and the opposition party.
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