Jamaat-e-Islami Pakistan Ameer, Hafiz Naeemur Rehman, has issued a stern warning to the government, stating that the party may escalate their sit-in protests if their captives are not released. Addressing Jamaat-e-Islami workers on Saturday, Hafiz Naeem criticized the government's heavy-handed tactics at the sit-in, including the erection of barriers and the use of force. He asserted that reaching D Chowk would be no challenge for Jamaat-e-Islami, emphasizing that the party could mobilize there at any time without obstruction. "Don't think Jamaat-e-Islami will limit its protest to Murree Road," he declared. "Our demands are legitimate, and if they are not met, our sit-in will not be confined to Liaquat Bagh; it will spread nationwide. The people have placed their hopes in me, and I cannot let them down. Tomorrow, we will hold a historic rally on Murree Road."

Hafiz Naeemur Rehman revealed that ongoing talks with the government, represented by Liaqat Baloch for Jamaat-e-Islami, are under way. He expressed skepticism about the government's negotiating committee but indicated that the consultation process within Jamaat-e-Islami continues. He called on the government to show seriousness and provide relief to the people, stressing that the negotiations are not just a formality. "If the government is serious, it must provide relief. There is no alternative," he stated. "Legitimate taxes will be accepted by businessmen and industrialists, but we must also address the concerns of the Independent Power Producers (IPPs) through a forensic audit. The middle and lower classes are suffering; we are fighting for the rights of 250 million people. All Pakistanis should join this sacred cause." Hafiz Naeem announced that Jamaat-e-Islami women workers will meet on Murree Road after Maghrib prayer on Sunday, with another significant gathering planned for Monday.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan