Jamaat-e-Islami launches nationwide protests against petroleum levy

Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) has launched nationwide sit-ins to protest rising petroleum product prices and the petroleum levy. The demonstrations are scheduled to take place in major cities, including Karachi, Lahore, Peshawar, and Quetta. Protesters plan to gather outside the Chief Minister’s House in Lahore and the Governor Houses in the other provinces.

JI Emir Hafiz Naeemur Rehman stated that the party is demanding the abolition of the petroleum levy and a fixed petrol price of Rs225 per liter. Additionally, the party is calling for the price of roti to be set at Rs10, alongside reductions in electricity, gas, and flour costs. Rehman warned that if the government attempts to obstruct the peaceful protests, the campaign could escalate into a movement to topple the government.

The protests come amid reports that Pakistan collected Rs1.567 trillion in petroleum levies during the 2025-26 fiscal year, exceeding the budgeted target. JI has also demanded an end to extravagant privileges for government officials and bureaucrats, including limits on vehicle engine capacities.