JI Threatens to Resume Islamabad March If Fuel Levy Not Abolished

LAHORE: The Jamaat-i-Islami (JI) has issued a stern warning to the government, stating it will reignite its long march to Islamabad with increased vigor if the petroleum levy is not abolished. Party leaders emphasized that they are not bound by any commitments made to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

The government currently imposes a hefty tax of Rs114 per litre on petrol and Rs100 per litre on diesel, which JI argues is burdensome for the public. JI had previously postponed its march, which commenced on September 21, following an appeal from the Prime Minister, pending a meeting that has yet to occur.

Addressing a press conference at the party’s headquarters in Lahore, JI chief Hafiz Naeem ur Rehman stated, “The prime minister may or may not talk to us. Our primary concern is the unjust petroleum levy that is affecting the common man.” This stance reflects growing frustration among citizens grappling with rising fuel costs amid economic challenges.

As the situation unfolds, JI’s leadership is poised to take decisive action if their demands are not met. The party’s next steps remain contingent on the government’s response, with potential implications for the political landscape as public discontent grows over economic policies.