Ruling elite continues to exploit natural resources, says Jamaat-e-Islami chief

F.P. Report

LAHORE: Jamaat-e-Islami emir Hafiz Naeemur Rehman has criticised the ruling elite for fuelling public anger through ongoing exploitation and unjust control of the country’s resources.

Speaking out against what he termed as collusion between the powerful and capitalists, Hafiz Naeem said the cycle of looting and conspiracies is being orchestrated by those in power, leaving ordinary citizens increasingly frustrated.

On the second day of the JI’s sit-in protest outside the Lahore Press Club, Hafiz Naeem praised the participants of the long march and said they received a warm welcome in every city along their route to Lahore. He emphasised that people from Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Sindh, and Balochistan stand united. He criticised the provincial governments of Punjab and Balochistan, calling them ‘Form 47 governments’, implying rigged election results.

Naeem made it clear that Pakistan was created for justice, not oppression. “Removing the police from our path was never a problem—we don’t want conflict, we want solutions for Balochistan’s issues,” he said.

Warning the government, he stated that if the committee – promised by the government – doesn’t begin work immediately, he will launch another long march.

“Respect Baloch and Pashtuns, heal the wounds of Baloch youth,” he urged, calling for immediate negotiations.

He then demanded that government must provide evidence on missing Baloch youth, insisting that enforced disappearances are unacceptable.

“If someone is guilty, bring them to court,” he said, adding that states cannot function by distributing certificates of treason.

He further asserted that local people have the first right over their region’s natural resources and called for fair treatment for all citizens, especially the youth of Balochistan.

He also called for the implementation of the Pakistan-Iran gas pipeline project, criticizing delays due to fear of the United States. “Issues with neighbouring countries must be resolved through dialogue,” he said.

Concluding his speech, Hafiz Naeem demanded clean water and employment for Balochistan and warned that suppressing people with force only breeds rebellion. “We are presenting Balochistan’s case from Lahore. The whole nation must unite to defeat the corrupt mafia that keeps Pakistan divided,” he declared.