Multan: Jamaat-e-Islami Pakistan Chief Hafiz Naeemur Rehman has announced nationwide shutter-down strike on August 28 to protest against high electricity bills and inflation.

Addressing rally organised by JI here, Hafiz Naeem criticised all political parties for burdening public with exorbitant electricity bills. “These bills have left people in distress. Public can no longer bear luxuries and privileges of rulers,” he stated. “We did not go home after making deals with government. We remain firm on our demands. If these are not met, we will march towards Islamabad with sea of people,” he warned. Hafiz Naeem questioned why Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif cannot extend this relief across country if Nawaz Sharif can announce reduction in electricity prices in Punjab. He suggested that gradually eliminating interest-based loans could provide further relief on electricity bills.  “If all political parties can unite for General Bajwa’s extension, why can’t they come together for public relief? Reducing their privileges could help alleviate burden on public,” he added. He gave government 37-day deadline to address their demands, warning that if no action is taken, long march to Islamabad will be inevitable. “We will launch movement that will not stop, uniting all sections of society,” he declared. Hafiz Naeem urged political workers across spectrum, including those from PTI, PML-N and PPP, to join strike. “Electricity bills affect everyone and we all must stand together in this protest,” he concluded.