JI Karachi Chief Munim Zafar Khan Announces Local Government Representatives’ Protest on August 24 Outside KMC Head Office
JI Leader Hafiz Naeemur Rehman Criticizes PPP’s Governance in Sindh, Announces Nationwide Campaign
Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) Chief Hafiz Naeemur Rehman has launched a sharp critique against the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), condemning what he described as the “worst governance” in Sindh. Rehman has accused the PPP of transforming into a “group of feudal lords and families” who, according to him, have usurped control without a legitimate mandate.
In a forceful address on Wednesday, Rehman remarked, “The PPP, which once stood as a political party, has now degenerated into a mere assembly of a few feudal lords. They have seized control of Karachi’s mayoralty without earning the people’s mandate. It is high time to rid our nation of this occupying mafia.” His comments reflect growing frustration with the current political leadership in Sindh, particularly regarding their management of Karachi.
Rehman further announced that JI would embark on a nationwide public outreach campaign beginning September 1. This campaign is designed to mobilize public opinion and address pressing issues. Additionally, a countrywide strike has been scheduled for August 28, targeting the soaring electricity prices and unjust tax burdens that JI claims are affecting ordinary citizens. Rehman asserted, “The government must deliver relief to the people. No other party stands up for the public’s rights as Jamaat-e-Islami does.”
In a related development, JI Karachi Chief Munim Zafar Khan revealed that the party’s local government representatives are planning a protest on August 24 outside the KMC Head Office on MA Jinnah Road. This demonstration aims to spotlight several pressing issues, including what JI perceives as the mayor’s incompetence, deteriorating road conditions, and the failure to effectively transfer resources and authority to town and union councils.
Khan emphasized the significance of the protest, stating, “This protest will not be the first or the last. If the Sindh government and the so-called ‘occupying’ mayor do not amend their ways, we will continue our demonstrations at every level.” His remarks underline the JI’s commitment to ongoing public demonstrations as a means to press for accountability and reform.
In addition to the protest, Khan criticized the Sindh government’s handling of the Red Line project, accusing it of neglecting Karachi despite receiving substantial federal funds. “The city’s crumbling infrastructure, water scarcity, and garbage-filled streets are clear indicators of the government’s incompetence,” Khan said. His comments reflect broader concerns about the state of urban infrastructure and public services in Karachi.
Khan also took issue with what he described as clandestine increases in water and sewerage bills, along with the imposition of municipal utility charges hidden within electricity bills. He condemned these practices as a betrayal of Karachi’s residents, arguing that they exacerbate the financial strain on local citizens.
The growing discontent voiced by Jamaat-e-Islami highlights a significant moment in Karachi’s political landscape, marked by heightened tensions between the ruling PPP and opposition parties. With JI’s planned campaign and protests, it is evident that political opposition is mobilizing to challenge the current administration’s policies and governance strategies.