JI announces sit-in on Sharae Faisal on June 26

Several demonstrations were staged across the metropolis against power tariff hike, electricity load shedding, and the “anti-people” federal budget on the call of Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Engr Hafiz Naeemur Rehman for nationwide protests

The party also announced a sit-in on Sharae Faisal on June 26 against the ongoing water and electricity crises. JI Karachi Ameer Munem Zafar announced the sit-in during a press conference at Idara Noor-e-Haq, the JI Karachi headquarters, on Friday.

Protests were held at major locations across the city. Addressing the press conference, Zafar stated that Karachiites are deprived of clean tap water while facing up to 18 hours of load shedding in several areas despite the harsh weather. He accused “white-collar criminals”, under the protection of the PPP and the MQM-Pakistan of ruining the city.

Zafar announced the reorganisation of the Karachi Rights Movement to fight for the rights of Karachiites, criticising the government for its failure in addressing the city’s issues, leaving residents with no option but to protest.

He highlighted that instead of providing relief, K-Electric (KE) increased load shedding durations, even starting in previously unaffected areas. Zafar accused KE of running an organised “Kunda System” and pressing citizens through both load shedding and overcharging.

He held the PML-N, PPP, and MQM-Pakistan responsible for granting a 20-year lease extension to KE.

On Karachi’s water crisis, Zafar stated that the city needs 1,300 million gallons daily (MGD) but only receives 650 MGD. Outdated water lines and uneven distribution exacerbate the problem. He recalled the K4 water supply project initiated by the late Nematullah Khan, which was supposed to be completed in 2019 but has been delayed due to political interference and corruption.

Zafar criticised the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) budget, stating that no significant allocation was made for development programs, rendering the mayor’s role ceremonial. He asserted that decisions for Karachi are made by the PPP government in Sindh to suit their interests.

Later, addressing a protest on Mehmoodabad Road, Zafar condemned the overcharging and prolonged power outages, stating they would no longer be tolerated. He claimed that both federal and provincial governments have lost interest in Karachi.