Latest news with #HafizNaeemurRehman
Express Tribune
12-06-2025
- Politics
- Express Tribune
Jamaat-e-Islami rejects federal budget, terms it elitist and anti-people
Listen to article Ameer of Jamaat-e-Islami, Hafiz Naeem ur Rehman, has strongly rejected the federal budget, branding it a 'pro-elite document' that exacerbates poverty, inflation, and inequality. Addressing a press conference at Mansoora on Wednesday, he said the government has failed to provide relief to the common man, choosing instead to favor the ruling class and privileged segments of society. "The budget imposes a heavy tax burden on the salaried and middle-income groups while offering no meaningful concessions or structural reforms," he said. He termed claims of poverty reduction by the government as "delusional" and "contrary to ground realities," noting that over 110 million Pakistanis continue to live below the poverty line. Hafiz Naeem accused the government of mismanaging the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), alleging it has become a tool of political manipulation and corruption, particularly in Sindh. Rs700 billion allocated for poverty alleviation is being used for corrupt practices. This misuse must be investigated and those responsible punished," he asserted. He argued that if these funds were invested in IT education, Pakistan's IT industry revenues could have surpassed Rs300 billion. Criticising the deteriorating state of education, he highlighted that nearly 29.2 million children remain out of school, while 'ghost schools' continue to drain public funds through fraudulent means. He lamented the lack of investment in education despite repeated claims of an 'education emergency.' Speaking on taxation, Hafiz Naeem revealed that the salaried class contributed Rs 499 billion in taxes this year, yet received no relief. He called for complete tax exemption for salaried workers and condemned the fact that 111 departments, including military-run organizations and private entities like Zia Hospital, are exempted from taxes while the poor are burdened with inflated utility bills. He sharply criticised the recent 600% increase in the salaries of the National Assembly Speaker and Senate Chairman, questioning the silence of government officials on the matter. He also denounced the imposition of an 11% tax on solar energy systems, calling it a violation of environmental and energy conservation commitments. "The government and opposition only pretend to be adversaries, but unite when it comes to enhancing their perks and privileges," he stated. Commenting on the economy, Hafiz Naeem said the country's current growth rate of 0.45% reflects policy failures, especially the "anti-farmer measures" taken by successive governments. He criticized agriculture credit schemes as "publicity stunts" that do not deliver real support to farmers, and pointed to a 30% decline in cotton cultivation as a consequence of neglectful policies. He described the ongoing use of outdated tools like Form 47 as emblematic of the systemic rot in agricultural governance. He further alleged that public funds are being collected through excessive taxation without any tangible benefits in return, whether in education, health, or public safety. Referring to Independent Power Producer (IPP) agreements, he said that promises of reduced electricity tariffs remain unfulfilled, while increases in petroleum levies amount to 'daylight robbery' from citizens' pockets. "The government has conceded that it may fall short of revenue targets by Rs1,500 billion and intends to impose an additional Rs 500 billion in taxes. What then is the logic behind such a budget?" he asked. Citing debt figures, Hafiz Naeem said every Pakistani now owes Rs76,000, with Rs5 trillion out of Rs11 trillion in total debt servicing going towards interest payments. "If interest rates were halved, it would significantly reduce electricity and gas prices," he added. He called the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) a "hub of corruption," advocating for deep institutional reforms or even the disbanding of the FBR to improve tax collection and eliminate debt dependency. He accused the FBR of using threats of anti-corruption action to facilitate further corruption. Demanding a reduction in civil and military privileges, he urged the government to redirect national resources toward the genuine needs of the people, especially defense requirements rooted in strategic necessity, not extravagance. Reaffirming his support for farmers, Hafiz Naeem announced a campaign against injustices faced by the agrarian community, citing previous success in securing reduced electricity tariffs following public pressure against IPPs. On foreign affairs, he alleged that India's intelligence agency, RAW, is involved in sponsoring terrorism in Balochistan. "There can be no negotiations with entities complicit in terrorism," he stressed. He also urged Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto to pursue serious diplomatic efforts on the Kashmir issue and demanded a clear and principled stance from the Pakistani government against US and Israeli policies.
Express Tribune
02-06-2025
- Politics
- Express Tribune
Field Marshal must act on Kashmir, Palestine too: Hafiz Naeem
Jamaat-e-Islami Pakistan Ameer Hafiz Naeemur Rehman has called on the country's military leadership to actively take up the causes of Kashmir and Palestine. Addressing a large rally titled "Down with Israel and India" at Koh-i-Noor Chowk, he said Pakistan must go beyond statements and play a leading role in supporting oppressed Muslims globally. He said, "If we don't raise our voice for Gaza and Kashmir, we will lose the nation's support. One who saves a life saves all humanity-this is our duty." He also criticised Pakistan's political elite for remaining silent on Israeli aggression, accusing PML-N, PPP and PTI of fearing US displeasure. Hafiz Naeem praised countries like South Africa, Spain and Ireland for taking a bold stand against Israel, and urged Pakistan to lead a Muslim world summit, both political and military, to demand an end to Israeli atrocities and Indian occupation in Kashmir. He warned that continued silence and inaction from Muslim rulers and Pakistan's own establishment would erode public trust. "People backed you against India despite their grievances. But if you stay quiet on Palestine and Kashmir, the nation will stop standing with you," he said.
Express Tribune
17-05-2025
- Politics
- Express Tribune
Kashmiris observe Youm-e-Tashakur in solidarity with armed forces
Youm-e-Tashakur was observed across Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) with great enthusiasm to express solidarity with the Pakistan armed forces. The day began in Muzaffarabad with a 21 gun salutes and flag-hoisting ceremonies at key government locations. The capital city witnessed a solemn start to the day with special prayers in mosques for peace, progress and the strength of the armed forces of Pakistan. At least 21 gun salutes were presented as a mark of respect for the Pakistan army. A central flag-hoisting ceremony was held at the Prime Minister's Secretariat, where a smartly turned-out AJK police contingent presented a guard of honor. A solidarity rally led by Minister Chaudhry Muhammad Rasheed was held from the Ministers' Block to Martyrs' Memorial. In a significant show of support, Jamaat-e-Islami ameer Hafiz Naeemur Rehman visited the Line of Control (LOC) in the Abbaspur Sector, where he met with troops and expressed unwavering solidarity with the Pakistan Army. Speaking on the occasion, he emphasized that the struggle against India would continue until the resolution of the Kashmir dispute as per the wishes of Kashmiris. On the occasion, Hurriat leader Altaf Ahmad Bhat said that May 10 attack gave a new hope to the Muslims of India and Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIoJK) people who were worst victims of Modi government. Bhat also appreciated the package announced by Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif for martyrs. Tehreek-e-Kashmir UK President Fahim Kayani said that the attack of Pakistan armed forces on India on May 10 made every British Pakistani proud across UK. Similar rallies and events were held in other cities across AJK. Citizens came out in large numbers to pay tribute to the Pakistan armed forces for their historic victory and to reaffirm their commitment to the cause of justice and national defense. Youm-e- Tashakur in AJK served as a powerful reminder of the public's steadfast support for the armed forces and their shared resolve to safeguard the nation at all costs. Pakistan Islamic Medical Association PIMA AJK chapter took to the streets from PIMA Al Hajri Hospital to Domail to express solidarity with Pakistan armed forces. The participants, including young doctors and paramedics, held Pakistan flags and raised slogans in favour of Pakistan Army. "May 10 united Pakistan from Karachi to Quetta, Peshawar, Lahore and Kashmir, and this day will also cement the national integration of Pakistan," Dr Reyaz Sheikh said. Students also took to the streets and congratulated the Pakistan Army for teaching the lesson to Hindu extremists while attacking their airbases in broad daylight. The rallies were also taken out in dozens of other districts and Tesla of AJK.
Business Recorder
13-05-2025
- Politics
- Business Recorder
JI asks govt not to give India any guarantee sans it quits aggression
ISLAMABAD: Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) Pakistan chief Hafiz Naeemur Rehman, Monday, while slamming India said that unless Indian government refrains from aggressive actions, Pakistan should not provide any guarantees. Talking to a delegation of Sikh community here, Naeem emphasised the importance of fully implementing the Indus Waters Treaty, stating that India's water aggression must be dealt with decisively and permanently. He said that the Pakistani nation will not accept any compromise on the Kashmir issue and stressed that the dispute should be resolved in accordance with United Nations resolutions. The Sikh delegation expressed happiness over Pakistan's recent strategic success and appreciated Jamaat-e-Islami's firm stance. The delegates reiterated that the people of Pakistan, regardless of religious, sectarian, or linguistic differences, stand united in defence of the country. They also celebrated the success of Pakistan's armed forces in countering Indian hostilities. The JI chief stated that the entire nation has set aside political differences in the interest of national security and integrity, a positive sign that the government must take seriously. He urged the authorities to act responsibly and take immediate and meaningful steps to preserve this unity. He said Pakistan had achieved a significant success against Indian aggression. He said that any international mediation on Kashmir must be aligned with UN resolutions. 'The government must not fall for empty statements from world leaders, and should avoid any illusionary hopes while pursuing a principled and firm policy on Kashmir,' he added. Calling Kashmir the 'jugular vein' of Pakistan, he said the people of Kashmir must be granted their right to self-determination. He criticised the Indian media for its toxic and false propaganda and urged the Pakistani government to expose the true face of the Hindutva ideology. 'The world should know that Modi's extremist vision poses a serious threat to the peace of South Asia. Muslims and other minorities in India are unsafe and frequently targeted,' he said. The chief stated that when a nation stands with honour and dignity, its economy can stabilise on its own. 'We must not lose a won battle at the negotiation table,' he asserted. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Business Recorder
10-05-2025
- Politics
- Business Recorder
JI observes Youm-e-Azm across Karachi
KARACHI: On the call of Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) Chief, Engr Hafiz Naeemur Rehman, Youm-e-Azm (Determination Day) was observed in Karachi and other parts of the country on Friday, with hundreds of demonstrations, walks, and programs held across the city. Large gatherings took place outside mosques, mainly after Friday prayers, while numerous schools and educational institutions also organized activities to mark the occasion. In Karachi, JI Karachi Chief, Monem Zafar led a major protest at Lasbela, where he addressed a large crowd. He urged the nation to remain awake and united in the face of Indian aggression, stressing that political and internal differences were insignificant when national security was at stake. The JI leader said the pride of Indian rulers and Hindutva forces had 'bitten the dust' after the so-called Operation Sandoor, stating that humiliation had become India's fate since Hindutva ideologues took power. He accused Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi of plunging the country into war hysteria and launching attacks under the pretext of a false flag operation. According to Monem Zafar, Pakistani forces retaliated by downing six Indian warplanes, including the much-publicized Rafael jets. He also claimed that several Israeli-made Indian drones were shot down and that bunkers and military installations along the Line of Control were destroyed, resulting in the deaths of over 50 Indian soldiers. He termed the United States, India, and Israel a 'satanic trio,' accusing them of global expansionist agendas, and emphasized the need to curb their influence to ensure global peace. Monem Zafar also spoke extensively about the U.S. sponsored Israeli actions in Gaza, calling it genocide. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
