Jamaat-e-Islami protest in Liaquat Bagh has now entered its 3rd day, causing significant disruptions in Rawalpindi. The protest, sparked by soaring electricity prices, heavy taxes, and severe inflation, has led to the establishment of a makeshift tent city in Liaquat Bagh. The sit-in has resulted in the complete closure of Murree Road and the suspension of the Metro Bus Service in Rawalpindi.
The protest began on Friday afternoon, with participants spending the night in large tents equipped with food, rest, and other facilities. The closure of key roads has caused significant inconvenience for residents, as authorities struggle to manage traffic and ensure safety.
Jamaat-e-Islami’s leadership has not formed a negotiation committee, despite dialogue offers from federal and provincial governments. Party Ameer Hafiz Naeem-ur-Rehman condemned the mass arrests of workers in Lahore and criticized the government’s oppressive policies. He vowed the sit-in would continue until their demands are accepted, emphasizing the group’s commitment to fighting for the rights of 250 million Pakistanis.
The protest highlights the frustrations of Pakistan’s youth, disillusioned with their future due to the ruling elite’s policies. Hafiz Naeem-ur-Rehman noted the country’s rich natural resources and criticized using imported coal for electricity, benefiting a select few. He called for reducing electricity prices and abolishing unjust taxes to ease the burden on the poor and middle class.
In his address, Hafiz Naeem-ur-Rehman demanded free, quality education for every child in Pakistan and highlighted the economic hardships of salaried individuals. He also urged the government to end the capacity payment agreement and dollar payments to Independent Power Producers (IPPs).
Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi contacted Jamaat-e-Islami’s Vice Ameer Liaqat Baloch to discuss protest demands. Baloch requested a 50% cut in electricity bills for users up to 500 units and the removal of slab rates.
