Hafiz Naeemur Rehman, Amir of Jamaat-e-Islami Pakistan, has condemned the government for breaching the Rawalpindi Agreement and warned of potential consequences.
During a press conference at the Noor Haq Institute on Sunday, he raised concerns about rising electricity prices due to unfavorable Independent Power Producer (IPP) agreements and excessive taxes affecting both the public and businesses.
Rehman announced the next phase of the ‘Haq Do Awam’ (Give Rights to the People) movement, which will include nationwide protests to address these pressing issues.
He outlined plans for a long march to Islamabad and a potential strike lasting from one to three days. Furthermore, a public referendum on the non-payment of electricity bills is scheduled to occur nationwide from October 23 to 27.
The JI chief emphasized the need to show solidarity with the people of Gaza and protest against Israeli aggression. Significant events are planned, including public gatherings in Chitral on October 2 and Faisalabad on October 4, culminating in a major “Gaza and Lebanon Million March” on October 6 in Karachi. On October 7, participants from various sectors are expected to gather at noon to protest against Israel.
Rehman urged the government to officially announce a nationwide protest on October 7 to send a strong message against Israeli actions.
He stressed that the liberation of the Al-Aqsa Mosque is a collective responsibility of the entire Muslim community, not just a single political party.
He aims to engage both government and opposition parties to unify their approach to this issue.
He argued that if the Muslim community, particularly its leaders, united, Israel would be deterred from continuing its bombings in Gaza. Rehman criticized the inaction of current rulers, suggesting that their silence has emboldened Israel to extend its aggression into Lebanon.
The JI Amir highlighted the historical resistance of Hamas and Hezbollah against Israeli and American forces, denouncing discussions about a two-state solution for Palestine as mere attempts to appease the United States and Israel.
He also criticized Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif’s recent comments at the United Nations regarding Kashmir and Palestine, contending that endorsing a two-state solution contradicts Pakistan’s national stance.