In Peshawar, Siraj-ul-Haq, the leader of Jamaat-e-Islami, raised concerns about Pakistan’s economic situation. He questioned why, in a country facing poverty, the cost of the ruler’s residence amounts to a staggering one billion and twenty-five crore rupees. He emphasized that if the government does not reduce electricity and petrol prices, they are prepared to stage a protest in Islamabad.
Addressing the demonstrators outside the governor’s house in Peshawar, Siraj-ul-Haq mentioned that their movement against the rising electricity bills started in Rahim Yar Khan. They planned to hold a three-day sit-in in Peshawar, emphasizing that there should be no taxes in electricity bills. Jamaat-e-Islami stands ready to organize a protest in Islamabad if the government does not roll back the electricity price hike.
Siraj-ul-Haq clarified that his fight is not personal but rather on behalf of the people. He stressed that their mission is against unrest, corruption, unemployment, and exploitation, aiming for prosperity with access to basic necessities like pure water and affordable living. He expressed hope that the new Chief Justice would bring an end to injustice and promote fairness in society.
Furthermore, Siraj-ul-Haq drew a comparison between Pakistan and India, highlighting how India has made advancements in space exploration while they are struggling with inflation and its adverse effects on daily life, business, and education.
Amir Jamaat-e-Islami also pointed out that since the caretaker government increased electricity prices, several people have taken their own lives, and the country’s currency has weakened compared to other South Asian nations. He lamented the migration of hundreds of youths seeking employment opportunities abroad, including those who have tragically drowned in the sea while attempting to reach Greece.
He further highlighted Pakistan’s substantial agricultural and mineral resources, such as wheat, rice, coal, gas, gold, and silver reserves. Despite these assets, there is a shortage of basic necessities like flour and sugar. He questioned why, despite these resources, darkness and poverty persist in their homes and streets.
Siraj-ul-Haq criticized the government for failing to fulfill its promises of creating jobs for one crore youth and providing housing for five million people. He argued that all finance ministers, regardless of their political affiliation, have agreed to IMF agreements, and he pledged not to allow Pakistan to become a slave to the IMF.
He also raised concerns about the enormous expenses associated with the residence of a prominent government official, questioning the source of such expenditures if the governor lacks the authority to incur them.
Siraj-ul-Haq criticized the caretaker government for increasing petrol prices three times when it was expected to focus on organizing elections. He expressed disappointment with the caretaker Prime Minister Kakar, who, in his view, changed his stance after taking office.
In conclusion, Siraj-ul-Haqq called for taking the matter of agreements with Independent Power Producers (IPPs) to the international court and emphasized that a significant portion of the budget goes to IPPs. He also mentioned that electricity worth 20 billion rupees is lost due to theft and criticized those unwilling to pay taxes on electricity bills. Jamaat-e-Islami announced its intention to take the matter to the Supreme Court regarding IPPs. Finally, he warned the government to withdraw the decisions on petrol and electricity prices, or be prepared for a sit-in protest in Islamabad.