KARACHI: Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) Emir Hafiz Naeem-ur-Rehman has strongly criticized the government’s economic policies during a press conference in Lahore, demanding an immediate end to the petroleum levy, a reduction in the policy rate, and the cessation of cosmetic relief packages. Highlighting widespread public discontent, he announced a major march toward Islamabad on September 20, confirming that ongoing sit-ins across various cities will continue.
Mr. Rehman criticized the petroleum levy as government extortion—charging 135 rupees per liter—and demanded its complete removal. He also expressed disappointment over the State Bank’s decision to maintain high interest rates, arguing that a 3 percent cut is essential to curb mounting national debt. Accusing rulers and bureaucrats of lavish spending, luxury foreign travel, and maintaining vehicles above 1300cc while ordinary citizens struggle.
