Hafiz Naeem asks govt to release JI workers or face consequences

RAWALPINI – Emir Hafiz Naeemur Rehman of Jamat-e-Islami (JI) warned on Saturday that if the government fails to eradicate fascism, the sit-in could become ugly.

Rehman emphasized that diplomacy and fascism were incompatible. He stated that Liaquat Baloch had been assigned the task of negotiating with the federal government-appointed committee.

During a news conference, the JI emir urged that already completed contracts with IPPs be halted, as well as that ongoing contracts be negotiated with their stakeholders. He also sought a forensic audit of the IPPs accused of forgery.

He claimed that around 200 party members, including the elderly, are still imprisoned in various parts of Punjab. The party workers were arrested in Lahore, and FIRs were filed against them.

The JI emir urged the workers’ immediate release and the dismissal of all cases against them.

He stated that “we are fighting for the rights of 250 million Pakistanis”.

The JI emir underlined that Pakistan is witnessing brain drain as a big number of young Pakistanis leave the country in search of a better and more stable future.

He said that the Sharif family owned the power plants and was responsible for Pakistan’s degradation.

Rehman determined that many JI members wanted to hold a sit-in at D-Chowk, but this would have resulted in bloodshed.

“But if our demands are not met, we will have to move to D-Chowk.” This sit-in will result in a historic revolution, he predicted.

Mohsin Naqvi talks to Liaquat Baloch.

Liaqat Baloch, speaking on the phone with Federal Minister for Interior Mohsin Naqvi, sought a 50% decrease in the cost of bills for up to 500 units, the termination of contracts to make capacity payments to IPPs, and the cessation of payments in dollars.

He also requested that the government reverse the recent hike in petrol prices and raise the petroleum development levy.