Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) chief Hafiz Naeemur Rehman has announced that talks with the government over the petroleum levy will begin on Monday.
Speaking at a press conference at the party headquarters in Mansoorah, Hafiz Naeem said the government contacted JI after the nationwide strike held on September 3.
The JI chief criticised the government over the petroleum levy. He said the public does not receive enough relief when international oil prices fall. He also argued that the levy does not directly reflect changes in global oil prices.
Hafiz Naeem described the levy as “extortion money” collected from the public. He called for changes that would provide greater relief to consumers.
JI Raises Concerns Over Government Spending
Hafiz Naeem also criticised the government’s approach to domestic borrowing. He alleged that the government gives banks favourable treatment when taking loans.
He also questioned spending by the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR). According to the JI chief, high expenses linked to FBR officials add to the financial pressure on ordinary citizens.
The JI leader further criticised members of the ruling elite for travelling abroad while people continue to face economic difficulties. He said public concerns should remain a priority for the government.
JI Plans Nationwide Petroleum Levy Campaign
JI has already announced plans to launch a broader campaign against the petroleum levy. Hafiz Naeem said the party would present its charter of demands on Thursday.
The party also plans to seek public opinion on the levy across Pakistan. Speaking at a Lahore sit-in, Hafiz Naeem said JI would collect signatures from five crore people as part of the campaign.
He said the planned referendum would rely on “Form 45, not Form 47.” The reference echoes the political debate in Pakistan over election results and transparency.
Hafiz Naeem also described the September 3 strike as only a rehearsal. He warned that the party could announce a wheel-jam strike if the government fails to address its demands.
Hafiz Naeem Warns of More Protests
The JI chief has also instructed party workers to prepare for a long march. He said the party would continue its campaign until the government responds to its demands.
Hafiz Naeem also warned that JI sit-ins would continue if authorities refused to abolish the petroleum levy.
The planned talks on Monday could therefore become an important test for both sides. The government will face pressure to explain its position on the levy, while JI will push for measures that reduce the burden on consumers.
The dispute comes as fuel prices and taxation remain sensitive issues for households and businesses across Pakistan. Any agreement between the government and JI could influence the party’s planned protest campaign in the coming weeks.
