PM Shehbaz reaches out to Hafiz Naeem over Islamabad march

PM reaches out to JI

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has contacted Jamaat-e-Islami Emir Hafiz Naeemur Rehman and asked the party to delay its planned Islamabad march until his return to Pakistan.

The Shehbaz Sharif request to JI was made during a telephone conversation between the prime minister and the JI chief. The two discussed the planned protest and the possibility of postponing the march.

According to reports, Hafiz Naeemur Rehman is considering the prime minister’s request and is expected to consult the party leadership before making a decision.

The development comes as the Jamaat-e-Islami petroleum levy protest continues, with the party raising concerns over fuel prices and the financial burden on consumers.

JI weighs PM’s request

The Shehbaz Sharif request to JI comes at a time when the party is preparing for further demonstrations in Islamabad.

Hafiz Naeemur Rehman has maintained that the party is raising public concerns through its campaign and wants the government to take steps to reduce the burden on citizens.

The Jamaat-e-Islami petroleum levy protest has included a long march towards the federal capital. The party has repeatedly called for relief from the petroleum levy and related increases in fuel costs.

Reports said the prime minister offered to hold discussions with the JI after returning to Pakistan. The proposed talks could provide an opportunity for both sides to discuss the demands raised by the party.

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Petroleum levy remains key issue

The Jamaat-e-Islami petroleum levy protest is mainly focused on the financial pressure faced by consumers because of fuel prices.

The party has previously held talks with the government over the issue but has continued its campaign despite those discussions.

Hafiz Naeemur Rehman has said the JI does not want confrontation with the government or any law and order problem. However, the party has also made clear that it wants its demands to be addressed through talks and public pressure.

The Shehbaz Sharif request to JI could now lead to another round of negotiations between the government and the opposition party.

What happens next?

The final decision is expected after Hafiz Naeemur Rehman consults the JI’s central leadership. The party will then determine whether to accept the request and change its protest schedule.

The Jamaat-e-Islami petroleum levy protest remains linked to the party’s demand for relief for consumers and action on fuel-related charges.

At the same time, the government appears to be seeking more time for dialogue. The latest contact between the two sides could therefore shape the next stage of the dispute.