JI Warns of Protests in Rawalpindi, Islamabad Over Fuel Price Hikes

Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) chief Hafiz Naeemur Rehman has warned that if authorities deny permission for the party’s planned rally at Rawalpindi’s Liaquat Bagh, the group will hold sit-ins in both Rawalpindi and Islamabad. The warning came during a press conference in Lahore as JI’s ongoing protest against the petroleum development levy and rising fuel prices entered its 15th day on Sunday.

Hafiz Naeem accused the administration of using delaying tactics to prevent the gathering at Liaquat Bagh, a historic venue often used for public demonstrations. He stated that any consequences resulting from the denial of permission would be the responsibility of the authorities. The JI leader also announced plans for a public gathering in Rawalpindi later that day and meetings with the business community as part of the protest movement.

The JI has escalated its campaign with a nationwide shutter-down strike scheduled for September 3, aiming to pressure the federal government over fuel price hikes and economic policies. Hafiz Naeem claimed the protests have successfully raised public awareness about key national issues, including economic hardship and governance concerns.

Addressing broader national challenges, he expressed concern over rising terrorist incidents and the growing trend of young professionals leaving the country due to disillusionment. He criticized the government’s economic policies, arguing that income tax collection disproportionately targets salaried individuals while excessive taxation burdens ordinary citizens.

The protests are unfolding against a backdrop of rising inflation, fuel prices, and electricity bills, which have fueled public frustration. Since August 16, JI supporters have staged sit-ins outside the Punjab chief minister’s residence in Lahore and governor houses in Karachi, Quetta, and Peshawar. The federal government is under increasing pressure following multiple fuel price increases and a shift from a 15-day review to a daily pricing mechanism, prompted by volatility in global oil markets after recent Middle East tensions.

The fuel price dispute has also led to protests from transporters and petroleum dealers, further intensifying pressure on the government to address public demands.

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