Jamaat-i-Islami chief Naeemur Rehman warns of possible non-payment of next month’s electricity bills after consultations with traders and civil society. He announces a sit-in outside the Governor House in Karachi to address inflation and inflated power bills, marking the second phase of their movement focused on “changing the system”.
Despite rain or shine, the party’s sit-in at Liaquat Bagh in Rawalpindi continues, with calls to address grievances related to electricity bills, petroleum levy, food prices, and taxes on traders and exporters. Naeemur Rehman emphasizes the need for a forensic audit of independent power plants, accusing them of exploiting the masses.
He criticizes the lack of women’s rights protection in education and condemns the Punjab government’s decision to privatize schools, advocating for a unified education system. The JI chief urges women to participate actively in creating awareness and safeguarding their rights.
The sit-in in Rawalpindi will persist until demands are met, with plans for similar demonstrations in other provincial capitals to intensify pressure on the government. The movement aims to address systemic issues and ensure fair treatment for the population.
Published in Dawn, July 30th, 2024