JI Chief Threatens Long March Over Power Tariff Agreement

Hafiz Naeem, chief of Jamaat-i-Islami (JI) Pakistan, warns of a possible Long March if the federal government fails to uphold the power tariff agreement. He criticized government indifference and emphasized JI's commitment to resolving high power costs. Energy Minister acknowledged Pakistan's high electricity rates and promised relief soon.

Hafiz Naeem, the chief of Jamaat-i-Islami (JI) Pakistan, has warned that his party may organize a Long March if the federal government fails to implement the power tariff agreement once the 45-day deadline expires, according to a Dawn report. He pointed out the strike on August 28 to protest high power costs would be effective.

Addressing JI office-bearers in Latifabad on Wednesday, Naeem emphasized Jamaat-i-Islami's role as a beacon of hope for the marginalized. He noted there are 32 days left for the agreement's implementation and warned of a Long March if not enacted within 45 days. He criticized the Punjab government's PKR 45 billion power subsidy as superficial, advocating for year-round affordable electricity in Pakistan.

Naeem accused both the government and opposition of indifference to public concerns, with only JI actively addressing these issues. The report also highlighted his criticism of Sindh's poor governance under the Pakistan People's Party (PPP), describing it as controlled by a few families and landlords. He accused the PPP of manipulating Karachi's administration, calling it a 'qabza group' party, and questioned the provincial government's ability to manage arms supplies to riverine dacoits in Sindh.

Energy Minister Awais Leghari acknowledged Pakistan's high electricity rates but promised relief soon. Speaking at the National Youth Convention in Islamabad, he clarified Pakistan's actual electricity generation capacity and the reasons behind the high power tariff.

(With inputs from agencies.)