JI to block major roads across country on Aug 7 over fuel price hikes

Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) Emir Hafiz Naeemur Rehman has announced nationwide protests on August 7 against the recent increase in petroleum prices, saying the party will block major highways and roads across the country.

Speaking at a meeting held to review preparations for the nationwide protest, Hafiz Naeem urged millions of people to come out of their homes and called on young supporters to block roads using their motorcycles.

He said only ambulances would be allowed to pass during the protests, claiming the demonstration would be historic and would force the government to provide relief to the public.

The JI chief also urged the government not to obstruct the party's peaceful and democratic protest. He demanded the immediate abolition of the petroleum levy and a review of agreements with Independent Power Producers (IPPs).

Hafiz Naeem further directed party workers to hold 20,000 corner meetings across the country to mobilise support and appealed to traders, lawyers, students, labourers and other sections of society to participate in the protests.