Chief of Jamaat-e-Islami Pakistan, Hafiz Naeem ur Rehman, has strongly criticized the recent increase in fuel prices, calling it a major burden on the public. In a statement released on Friday, Hafiz Naeem described the hike as a “petrol bomb” imposed on citizens already facing economic difficulties.
According to official data, petrol prices have risen by Rs138 per litre, reaching Rs458.40. Diesel prices have also increased sharply by Rs184 per litre, now standing at Rs520.35. These increases have raised concerns among the public, especially low and middle-income groups.
In his video message, Hafiz Naeem announced a nationwide protest movement against the fuel price hike. He urged citizens, particularly the youth, to take part in demonstrations and raise their voices. He said the decision has made daily life more difficult for millions of people.
Hafiz Naeem also suggested alternative measures to reduce the financial burden on the public. He called on the government to delay payments to Independent Power Producers (IPPs) and regasification plants. He argued that these payments involve billions of rupees and could be reviewed to provide relief.
He further stated that the government should cut its own expenses instead of increasing costs for the public. He criticized the continued rise in fuel prices, saying it has reached an unbearable level. According to him, such decisions are deeply affecting people who are already struggling to meet basic needs.
The Jamaat-e-Islami leader highlighted that rising fuel prices are not the only concern. He pointed out that taxes have also increased, adding more pressure on citizens. He said motorcyclists, delivery riders, students, and daily wage workers will be the most affected by the recent changes.
He also questioned ongoing payments to regasification plants at ports. He claimed that these plants continue to receive funds despite not supplying gas. He asked why such payments cannot be stopped to ease the economic burden.
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Announcing the protest plan, Hafiz Naeem said demonstrations will begin across the country immediately. He warned that public pressure could force the government to reconsider its decisions. The protest movement is expected to gain attention as fuel prices continue to impact daily life across Pakistan.
