Pakistan’s right-wing Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) on Saturday vowed to continue its protest in the twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi, entering its second day. The party’s sit-in aims to pressure the government to reduce electricity prices and taxes on the salaried class.
Electricity bills in Pakistan have skyrocketed following the country’s agreement to increase power tariffs in order to secure a deal with the International Monetary Fund (IMF). This decision has sparked widespread anger, as the IMF’s conditions for the bailout package include tax revenue increases.
The Pakistani budget has drawn criticism for its lack of relief for the middle class, instead imposing a 39% effective income tax rate on salaried individuals, 44% on associations, and a staggering 50% on non-salaried individuals. This, while exempting income tax on property sales by serving and retired bureaucrats and military personnel, has further intensified public discontent.
The JI’s protest, initially planned as a rally at Islamabad’s D-Chowk, was met with police intervention. The party then shifted its focus to three locations: Murree Road and Chungi No 22 in Rawalpindi, and H-8 Bridge in Islamabad.
Addressing protesters on Murree Road, JI chief Hafiz Naeem emphasized the need for government action to alleviate the burden on the masses. While acknowledging the challenges faced by the country, Naeem insisted that the issue of power tariffs could be addressed. He stressed the need for renegotiations with Independent Power Producers (IPPs), perceived as the main contributors to the exorbitant electricity bills.
Naeem expressed willingness to engage in talks with the government if genuine efforts are made to address the concerns raised by the JI. He proposed the formation of a committee to facilitate these discussions.
In a bid to mobilize public support, Naeem announced a large gathering on Murree Road on Sunday evening, calling upon people from all walks of life to participate in the fight for their rights.
The JI, one of Pakistan’s oldest parties, is known for organizing large-scale protests. While the current demonstrations have remained peaceful, Naeem alleged that numerous party workers have been arrested and demanded their immediate release.
Meanwhile, supporters of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) also staged demonstrations across the country on Friday, protesting the inflated electricity bills and calling for the release of former prime minister Imran Khan from jail. Hundreds of PTI workers were reportedly arrested during these protests.
