'Referendum' to decide if electricity bills to be paid or not: JI chief Hafiz Naeem

Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) Pakistan leader Hafiz Naeemur-Rehman has announced that a 'public referendum' will be held to decide whether citizens should continue paying electricity bills or not.

Speaking at a press conference in Mansoorah, Hafiz Naeem revealed that the referendum will take place from October  23 to 27, following a series of nationwide protests.

The JI leader criticised the government for imposing 'unjust taxes' and allowing Independent Power Producers (IPPs) to 'benefit at the public’s expense.'

He accused the government of failing to deliver on its promises of providing relief to citizens and vowed to launch a fresh wave of protests after October 7 if the situation does not improve.

As part of its 'Haq Do Awam Ko' (Give People Their Rights) movement, Jamaat-e-Islami has organised a series of demonstrations against rising electricity bills, and taxes.

Hafiz Naeem also highlighted the party’s successful shutter-down strike, which, according to him, fostered national unity.

He called for an end to the privileges given to government ministers and IPPs, arguing that the common people are paying the price for policies favouring a few.

He added that JI’s upcoming protests and 'referendum' are aimed at ensuring justice for the public and putting pressure on the government to take corrective measures.