In a bold move to oppose rising electricity prices and the unchecked profits of Independent Power Producers (IPPs), Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) Chief Hafiz Naeem-ur-Rehman has announced a nationwide protest on September 29.
This declaration was made during a press conference on Tuesday, where Naeem addressed the nation’s concerns over the government’s failure to manage the exorbitant profits of IPPs, and the consequent financial burden placed on the public.
Naeem-ur-Rehman expressed deep frustration over the continuous fuel price adjustments and additional taxes imposed on electricity bills, which are impacting the daily lives of millions of Pakistanis. The JI leader criticized the government for not honoring its commitment to conduct a forensic audit of the IPPs, despite previous assurances given during a 13-day sit-in in Rawalpindi.
With the announcement of further protests, Naeem vowed to escalate the “Give Rights to the People” movement, warning of additional actions if the government does not take immediate steps to address the grievances surrounding the energy crisis.
Rising IPP Profits: A Major Concern
Hafiz Naeem-ur-Rehman did not hold back in his criticism of the government’s failure to regulate the massive profits of Independent Power Producers (IPPs), which have amassed staggering annual earnings of Rs 2,000 to 2,400 billion since the year 2000. He highlighted the stark contrast between the immense profits enjoyed by these corporations and the struggles faced by ordinary citizens who are grappling with skyrocketing electricity bills.
Naeem pointed out that the current system of fuel price adjustments, coupled with the imposition of additional taxes on electricity consumption, has exacerbated the financial burden on Pakistan’s population. These rising costs have made it increasingly difficult for families and businesses to cope, sparking widespread dissatisfaction and anger.
The JI leader expressed disappointment over the government’s failure to fulfill its promise of auditing the IPPs, a measure that was agreed upon during a significant sit-in protest in Rawalpindi.
The government had pledged to conduct a forensic audit to identify discrepancies and inefficiencies within the energy sector, but so far, no such action has been taken. Naeem argued that this inaction is indicative of the government’s unwillingness to address the core issues plaguing Pakistan’s energy infrastructure.
Escalating Protests and Future Actions
In response to the government’s inaction, Hafiz Naeem-ur-Rehman announced a series of escalating demonstrations as part of the “Give Rights to the People” movement. He revealed that the protests would not be limited to the September 29 event but would extend to include sit-ins on major highways, disrupting transportation and commerce across the country.
The JI chief further warned that if the government does not take meaningful steps to address the IPP issue, the party will be forced to consider more drastic measures. Among these potential actions is the possibility of organizing a wheel-jam strike, where transportation networks across the nation would come to a halt, creating significant pressure on the government to respond.
Additionally, Naeem hinted at the prospect of a million-strong march towards Islamabad, where citizens from all corners of the country would converge on the capital to demand their rights. This would represent one of the largest mass mobilizations in recent history and could significantly shift the political landscape if the government continues to ignore the public’s concerns.
Moreover, Naeem announced that the Jamaat-e-Islami would conduct a referendum between October 23 and 27 to allow citizens to express their opinion on whether they should continue paying electricity bills under the current system. This referendum is expected to serve as a powerful tool to gauge public sentiment and could further escalate pressure on the government to make urgent reforms.
Broader Criticisms and Solidarity with International Causes
Beyond the issue of rising electricity prices, Hafiz Naeem-ur-Rehman took the opportunity to address several other pressing concerns during his press conference. He criticized the government’s misleading inflation figures, which he argued fail to reflect the true cost-of-living challenges faced by the average Pakistani citizen.
Naeem called for an immediate reduction in the country’s interest rate, urging the government to bring it down to 10% in order to stimulate economic growth and ease financial pressures on households.
In a show of international solidarity, Naeem also condemned Israel’s recent military actions in Lebanon, expressing strong support for the people of Gaza, Palestine, and Lebanon. He dedicated an entire week in solidarity with these nations, highlighting the Jamaat-e-Islami’s commitment to standing with oppressed peoples across the world.
Naeem’s statements come at a time when Pakistan is facing a multifaceted crisis, with economic challenges, energy shortages, and regional instability all contributing to a growing sense of unease. His call for nationwide protests has struck a chord with many citizens who feel increasingly disconnected from the government’s decision-making processes and disillusioned by its failure to deliver on key promises.
Hafiz Naeem-ur-Rehman’s announcement of nationwide protests marks a significant moment in Pakistan’s ongoing struggle with rising energy costs and corporate profiteering. By placing the spotlight on the unchecked profits of Independent Power Producers and the government’s inaction, the Jamaat-e-Islami leader has tapped into a deep well of public frustration.
As the “Give Rights to the People” movement gains momentum, the coming weeks will be critical in determining how the government responds to these growing demands for accountability and reform.
With further demonstrations planned, including the possibility of mass mobilization and referendums, the future of Pakistan’s energy policy—and the welfare of its citizens—hangs in the balance.
The outcome of this movement could have far-reaching implications for the country’s political and economic trajectory, and the government will need to tread carefully to avoid a full-blown crisis
