Jamaat-e-Islami protests petroleum levy and announces Islamabad march

Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) has intensified its opposition to the petroleum levy, organizing protests in Islamabad and announcing a nationwide long march scheduled for September 20. During a women’s rally at Aabpara Chowk in Islamabad, JI Emir Hafiz Naeem-ur-Rehman characterized the petroleum levy as an “extortion-like tax” that unfairly burdens the public while the ruling elite maintains lavish lifestyles.

Rehman warned that the party would escalate its movement into a campaign to oust the government if the levy is not abolished. He criticized the government for increasing fuel prices when international rates rise but failing to provide relief when they fall. The party highlighted that rising inflation and fuel costs are making it difficult for even middle-class families to manage household expenses, such as electricity and education.

In Karachi, JI leader Munem Zafar stated that thousands of people from the city would join the Islamabad march. He also criticized the provincial government and the ruling PPP, alleging attempts to control city resources and calling for the devolution of powers under Article 140A of the Constitution.