Jamaat-e-Islami has rejected the authorities’ request to delay their sit-down-in throughout Muharram.
Interior Minister’s Appeal Jamaat-e-Islami
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi contacted Jamaat-e-Islami’s Secretary General Amir-ul-Azeem last night. Appealing for the sit-in to be postponed due to various security concerns during Muharram. Minister Naqvi emphasized the heightened security risks and threats, urging the celebration to consider the postponement for public protection. In response, Amir-ul-Azeem is confident that taking a seat-in might be nonviolent and within the bounds of the law. Minister Naqvi reiterated his request. Expressing excessive expectations from the birthday celebration. To which Amir-ul-Azeem responded by asking the government not to worry and promising a peaceful protest.
Jamaat-e-Islami’s Stance on Electricity Tariffs
Meanwhile, Jamaat-e-Islami leader Hafiz Naeem-ur-Rehman demanded an end to the excessive electricity tariffs. The slab system, and the oppressive IPP (Independent Power Producers) agreements. He called for making electricity cheaper and eliminating heavy taxes on utility bills. Advocating for direct relief to the public instead of pushing for solar systems.
Criticism of Political Leaders
Hafiz Naeem-ur-Rehman criticized the PML-N (Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz), claiming that whenever they come to power, they initiate new business ventures under the guise of large projects. He also labeled Asif Zardari as a representative of feudal lords. He announced a significant sit-in in Islamabad on July 12, stating they would disperse once public demands were met.
Mobilization and Media Interaction
These remarks were made during his address at a public mobilization camp organized by Jamaat-e-Islami Lahore for the Islamabad sit-in and during a protest outside the LESCO (Lahore Electric Supply Company) office. Secretary General Amir-ul-Azeem and other leaders accompanied him.
Constitutional Concerns
Additionally, Hafiz Naeem-ur-Rehman condemned the permission given to a sensitive agency to tap citizens’ phones, declaring it a violation of Article 9 of the Constitution and fundamental human rights. He warned the government to refrain from violating the Constitution, describing this action as an insult to Pakistanis, noting that even judges are not safe. He asserted that the modern-day government continues the PDM (Pakistan Democratic Movement) regime.
Jamaat-e-Islami continues the planned sit-in, emphasizing its nonviolent nature and adherence to felony barriers. The party continues to rally against high electricity tariffs and the government’s policies, vowing to persist until its demands are met.
