Lahore – Jamaat-e-Islami Emir Hafiz Naeem ur Rehman on Tuesday called for significant economic and policy changes in Pakistan, including an finish to payments for Independent Power Producers (IPPs) and a reduction in electricity tariffs. Rehman also advocated for the abolishment of the petroleum levy and renewed regional cooperation in light of the ongoing conflict involving Iran.
Economic Reforms Demanded
Speaking at a press conference in Mansoorah, Rehman urged the government to halt capacity payments to IPPs for electricity that goes unused and to shut down thermal power plants. He also proposed imposing taxes on feudal elites and restoring parliamentarians’ salaries to pre-increase levels. Austerity measures were also suggested, including limiting official vehicles to 1300cc and selling state assets – specifically an aircraft used by Maryam Nawaz and a vehicle allocated to the Senate chairman – with the proceeds going to the national treasury.
Foreign Policy Concerns
Rehman stressed the importance of resuming perform on the Pakistan-Iran gas pipeline immediately following the end of the conflict involving Iran. He also proposed expanding the existing defense agreement between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia to include Iran and Turkey, believing a broader alliance would deter potential aggression against Muslim countries.
International Criticism
Rehman commented on global affairs, stating that U.S. President Donald Trump is influenced by a “Zionist nexus” and that the United States and Israel are aggressors against Iran and Gaza. He characterized Iran’s resistance as a victory, forcing the U.S. To negotiate, and criticized civilian casualties in Gaza and Western policies.
Domestic Unity and Protests
Rehman urged national unity and warned against sectarian divisions amid regional tensions, stating that campaigns against Iran would indirectly benefit U.S. And Israeli interests. He also called for a transparent investigation into deaths during protests outside the U.S. Consulate in Karachi and reiterated that peaceful political resistance is a constitutional right. He also expressed support for dialogue with Afghanistan, while insisting that Afghan territory not be used for militant activities against Pakistan.
Frequently Asked Questions
What specific economic reforms did Hafiz Naeem ur Rehman demand?
Hafiz Naeem ur Rehman demanded an end to payments to Independent Power Producers (IPPs), a reduction in electricity tariffs, the abolishment of the petroleum levy, taxes on feudal elites, and austerity measures like limiting official vehicles and selling state assets.
What was Rehman’s stance on the conflict involving Iran?
Rehman called for renewed regional cooperation following the conflict involving Iran and stressed the importance of resuming work on the Pakistan-Iran gas pipeline after the conflict ends.
What did Rehman say about U.S. And Israeli involvement in regional conflicts?
Rehman stated that the U.S. And Israel were aggressors against Iran and Gaza and that U.S. President Donald Trump was influenced by a “Zionist nexus.”
Given the complex interplay of economic pressures, regional conflicts, and domestic political considerations, how might these demands shape Pakistan’s future policy decisions?
