JI announces shutter down strike nationwide

KARACHI: Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) Pakistan Ameer Hafiz Naeemur Rehman announced a country-wide ‘peaceful’ shutter-down strike scheduled for August 28.

Speaking at the party’s office at Idara Noore Haq in Karachi, Hafiz Naeemur Rehman criticized other opposition parties for their indecision on protesting against the government.

He emphasized that JI would not join any political alliances due to this confusion and reiterated that JI’s allegiance is with Pakistan’s youth and people.

Previously, Hafiz Naeemur Rehman pledged to compel the government to adhere to its agreement with JI. He also highlighted deteriorating law and order in Punjab and expressed concerns that 74 percent of Pakistanis are struggling financially, with many youths considering leaving the country due to limited opportunities.

Hafiz Naeemur Rehman criticized the costly RLNG agreements, which he claimed have harmed the economy, and warned that IPPs might pursue international legal action if their contracts are breached.

In addition, he also noted that the Federal Board of Revenue’s interference could hurt exports, and mentioned Pakistan is suffering a loss of 250 billion due to border smuggling. He assured JI would hold the government accountable and ensure the agreement’s implementation.

Earlier, the traders’ community announced a nationwide strike on August 28 to protest the Tajir Dost scheme introduced by the Federal Board of Revenue.

The All Pakistan Anjuman-e-Tajiran, along with other traders’ associations, demanded the withdrawal of the scheme, the reversal of heavy taxes on the export sector, and the increase in income tax slabs for salaried individuals and businessmen.