KARACHI, September 18, 2023 – The Jamaat-i-Islami (JI) has declared its intention to bring Karachi to a standstill tomorrow in protest against the steep increase in fuel prices and rising inflation under the current caretaker administration. The party accuses this government of continuing the policies of the previous Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) government.
Addressing the media at the party’s headquarters, Idara Noor-i-Haq, JI Karachi chief Hafiz Naeemur Rehman outlined the details of the protest plan and urged Karachiites to join the JI’s struggle for accountability from both past and present rulers.
“I appeal to the people of Karachi for an all-out protest in the city on Tuesday by blocking major traffic arteries,” said Hafiz Naeemur Rehman. He warned the rulers, saying, “Reduce petroleum product prices or face the consequences.”
The JI plans to mobilize youngsters in Karachi, who will converge at 15 designated locations on Tuesday evening, effectively blocking vehicular traffic by turning off their vehicles as a form of protest.
Hafiz Naeemur Rehman criticized the caretaker government for raising petroleum product prices for the third time in a single month, particularly when the value of the US dollar has been decreasing. He described this move as illogical and detrimental to the people.
“The wealthy and elite rulers of this economically challenged country should acknowledge that the public’s patience is wearing thin,” he asserted.
He further emphasized that the country appears to be controlled by powerful interests who would be the first to escape if the country were to face financial instability. Hafiz Naeemur Rehman called on the masses to stand up for their rights, stating, “The silence of the victims only empowers the oppressors.”
Following the press conference, a significant number of JI workers, led by Hafiz Naeemur Rehman, staged a sit-in on Sharea Faisal, one of Karachi’s major roadways.
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The JI’s planned protests highlight the growing frustration among the public due to the rising cost of living and fuel prices. The outcome of these protests could potentially influence the government’s stance on these pressing economic issues.
