Trade associations across Karachi have strongly backed today’s citywide shutter-down strike.
Protesting against the Independent Power Producers’ (IPPs) capacity charges, rising taxes, fuel prices, and soaring inflation.
Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) has called for this strike on Wednesday, August 28, aiming to pressure the government into renegotiating IPP contracts and reducing electricity rates.
JI Karachi Chief, Munem Zafar, urged local leaders to rally support from all sectors of society, declaring that the August 28 strike will be a turning point in the country’s political landscape.
The All Pakistan Transport Association has announced a full-scale protest against what it describes as unjust behavior by the Motorway Police.
According to the association chairman, Sheikh Amir Randeem, the protest will address issues such as heavy fines and unjustified cases filed against transporters.
He emphasized that the strike aims to force the government to roll back excessive taxes and reduce the financial burden on the public.
The All Sindh Saraf Jewellers Association announced that gold markets would remain closed in solidarity with the strike, with no bullion rates to be released.
Meanwhile, the Karachi Confectionery Association and other small trader organizations have pledged their support, criticizing politicians who oppose the strike for their self-interest.
They asserted that the traders’ unity will disrupt the government’s plans and compel action on the burdensome IPP contracts.