Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) chief Hafiz Naeemur Rehman has described the demands of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) as legitimate and called for a meeting between the government and PTI founder Imran Khan.
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Speaking to the media, Hafiz Naeem criticised what he described as threatening statements issued by government ministers, saying such remarks were uncalled for.
The JI chief said imposing governor’s rule would be an unconstitutional step and warned that such a move could have consequences for the government.
He also said political issues should be addressed through dialogue rather than confrontation.
Hafiz Naeem further called for arranging a meeting with the PTI founder, saying the party’s demands should be addressed through political engagement.
Hafiz Naeem said the Jamaat-e-Islami had not postponed its protest campaign, but had only taken a break.
According to the JI chief, protests by his party are continuing in different parts of the country.
He said the JI would not withdraw its demands and would continue its campaign over fuel prices and other issues.
The JI chief also claimed that petrol prices could have reached Rs600 per litre if his party had not staged protests. He attributed the relief announced by the government to pressure created by the JI’s protest campaign.
The statements reflect the position of the Jamaat-e-Islami regarding fuel prices and the government’s measures.
Hafiz Naeem said direct talks with the prime minister would be held after his return to the country. He reiterated that the Jamaat-e-Islami would not step back from its demands.
The JI had earlier announced a delay in its planned long march towards Islamabad following a request from the prime minister.
The protest was being organised against the Petroleum Development Levy (PDL) being charged to fuel consumers across the country.
