Jamaat-e-Islami to Hold Nationwide Protests on Jan 31 Over IPP Issues and Lawmakers’ Salary Hike
JI chef Hafiz Naeem-ur-Rehman stated that protests would be held simultaneously across the country
Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) has announced a nationwide protest scheduled for January 31, 2025. This demonstration is primarily in response to the government’s handling of the Independent Power Producers (IPP) issue and the recent increase in lawmakers’ salaries.
JI’s chief, Hafiz Naeem ur Rehman, has criticized the government for failing to provide relief from high electricity tariffs and for prioritizing pay hikes for parliamentarians amidst rising inflation and economic hardship faced by the general populace.
This protest builds on JI’s ongoing campaign against high electricity prices and inflation, which has seen various demonstrations across the country.
The party has been vocal about its discontent with the government’s agreements with IPPs that have resulted in exorbitant electricity bills for consumers.
Rehman has called for these protests to continue until their demands are met, emphasizing the need for accountability and relief for the citizens suffering due to economic mismanagement.
At a press conference in Karachi, JI chief Hafiz Naeem-ur-Rehman questioned why the public had not seen any relief despite Independent Power Producers (IPPs) benefiting from the agreements.
He stated that the government claimed to have concluded negotiations with 17 IPPs, yet Jamaat-e-Islami remains the people’s voice in highlighting their concerns.
Reiterating Jamaat-e-Islami’s position, Hafiz Naeem-ur-Rehman pointed out that parliamentary salaries had increased by 140%, while the party continues its advocacy for the Palestinian cause.
He stressed the need for Pakistan to play an active role in the reconstruction of Gaza and urged the government to act decisively in the current geopolitical climate. He also called on Arab countries and others to resist recognizing Israel.
