Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) has announced a million march in Islamabad on December 29 to protest against the economic and political conditions in Pakistan. Addressing a press conference, Hafiz Naeem-ur-Rehman, the Ameer of Jamaat-e-Islami, expressed concerns over the dire state of the nation’s economy and the political system. Rehman compared Pakistan’s situation to that of Syria, highlighting how the Syrian government, under Bashar al-Assad, suppressed the people and denied them their rights. He pointed out that in Pakistan, a few influential individuals control the country’s resources, leading to economic inequality. He criticized the current rise in the stock market, labeling it as a "fake rally," with big players manipulating the market by directing investments into the stock exchange and benefiting from the reduction in interest rates.

He emphasized that this practice has been seen before, contributing to a distortion of the economy. He also raised concerns about the dire situation in Sindh, particularly Karachi, where he claimed that the Pakistan People's Party (PPP) has been ruling for 17 years but has failed to deliver basic services. He cited the ongoing water crisis in Karachi, which has seen no water supply for 11 days, and alleged that PPP’s rule has led to the occupation of people's lands. Rehman argued that those who benefit from the PPP’s policies continue to support the party, despite widespread discontent among the people of Sindh. Regarding Pakistan's economic situation, Rehman stressed that real improvements could only be achieved by addressing the core issues of taxation, resource distribution, and providing relief to the public.

He criticized the elite class, particularly the top 7% of billionaires in the government, for not understanding the everyday struggles of ordinary citizens. Rehman asserted that Pakistan’s economy would not improve through mere statements but through concrete actions and reforms. The JI leader also spoke out against the country’s privatization process, accusing the government of selling off state-owned enterprises under fraudulent agreements. He particularly mentioned the case of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), accusing the government of destroying its fleet and setting up a "looting cell" under the guise of privatization.

Rehman also criticized the privatization of K-Electric, saying that line losses and energy inefficiency had increased since its privatization 19 years ago, and that energy prices remained high despite talks with Independent Power Producers (IPPs). Rehman concluded by reiterating that the economy could only improve if structural reforms were implemented, particularly in the energy sector, which he believes would help reduce electricity bills, stimulate exports, and address the broader economic crisis facing the nation. The Million March planned for December 29 aims to mobilize the public in protest against the current government's policies, with Jamaat-e-Islami vowing to demand accountability and action on behalf of the people of Pakistan.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)