JI hits out at rulers for people's economic hardships

OKARA (Dunya News) - Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) emir Hafiz Naeem-ur-Rehman has accused the government of imposing 'economic terrorism' on people, saying rising inflation and economic hardships have left the public demanding relief. Addressing a public meeting here on Sunday, Hafiz Naeem said ordinary citizens were struggling with soaring living costs while the ruling elite continued to enjoy luxuries. He described the gathering as significant for determining the future direction of Punjab's politics. He said Jamaat-e-Islami had brought public concerns to the forefront and launched a nationwide movement to address economic difficulties. According to him, the party's efforts had generated renewed hope among people across the country. Criticising the government's relief measures, Hafiz Naeem said the monthly relief being provided amounted to around Rs27 billion, while approximately Rs150 billion was being collected through levies. He termed the petroleum levy an unjust burden on the public, arguing that it was a tax imposed on the people rather than a measure directly linked to fuel prices. The Jamaat-e-Islami chief said party workers had staged sit-ins simultaneously in 42 cities to highlight public grievances and press for changes in government policies. He added that the party had temporarily postponed its long march, but its workers and supporters remained prepared to resume the protest if necessary. Discussing independent power producers (IPPs), Hafiz Naeem said Jamaat-e-Islami had launched a campaign to raise awareness about issues in the electricity sector. He criticised the existing arrangements, arguing that consumers continued to bear financial burdens even when electricity was not generated. Hafiz Naeem reaffirmed that Jamaat-e-Islami would continue its movement to secure relief for the public and address economic hardships. He said the party retained several options, including protests and long marches, to press for the resolution of public issues.