Maulana Fazlur Rehman, leader of Jamiat Ulema Islam (F), has expressed his strong support for the nationwide traders' strike planned for August 28, citing severe economic pressures faced by the public. In his statement, he criticized the IMF-driven budget, claiming it has significantly worsened the financial conditions of the people. He urged workers to ensure the peaceful strike's success, underscoring that it is a critical measure for alleviating public distress. Deputy Amir of Jamaat-e-Islami, Liaquat Baloch, has also endorsed the shutter-down strike, describing it as a decisive action to address widespread dissatisfaction with high electricity costs, fuel prices, and taxes. Baloch emphasized that this strike represents the collective decision of the people seeking relief from escalating expenses.

The business community announced the strike on August 16 in response to heavy taxation, rising electricity bills, and the FBR's business policies. Leaders including Muhammad Kashif Chaudhry, President of the Center of Tajran Pakistan, and Ajmal Baloch, President of All Pakistan Anjuman Tajran, confirmed that traders nationwide will participate in the shutdown. Additionally, Hafiz Naeem-ur-Rehman of Jamaat-e-Islami reaffirmed his support for the strike on August 22. He highlighted the damaging effects of increased utility bills and fuel costs on traders and stressed that the strike is essential for challenging these adverse measures. Naeem-ur-Rehman affirmed that Jamaat-e-Islami is committed to representing public interests and fully supports the August 28 demonstration.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan