JI announces nationwide protests, Lahore rally against inflation and delays in LG polls

Jamaat-i-Islami (JI) leader Hafiz Naeemur Rehman announced nationwide protests, including a rally in Lahore, to address inflation, farmers' issues, and delays in local government elections. Rehman stated that JI would hold gatherings in Quetta, Lahore, Peshawar, and Karachi.

The party has been demanding the removal of petroleum levies due to rising fuel prices caused by conflicts in the Middle East. Recently, the government has reduced petrol and diesel prices six times as global oil prices fell, but consumers continue to pay the same rates for essential commodities due to unchanged transport charges. LPG prices remain higher than the official rate due to Iran's supply disruption.

Rehman criticized the Punjab government led by Maryam Nawaz for the deteriorating agricultural situation, citing high prices for DAP fertiliser, urea, and flour. He also pointed out that cotton cultivation has declined by 60% over the past decade, with sugarcane replacing it in traditional cotton-growing areas, and sugar mills may not crush by Nov 15.

JI has approached courts over the delay in holding LG elections and contested the Punjab Local Government Act, calling it anti-democratic. Regarding petroleum levies, JI has consulted with the Centre and prepared a draft agreement, which the government will review before announcing relief measures. Rehman demanded that the government pass on benefits from declining international oil prices to consumers and reduce excessive profits made by oil refineries.