Liaquat Baloch warns of nationwide long march if govt fails to provide relief to masses

Jamaat-e-Islami leader Liaquat Baloch Wednesday expressed gratitude to the Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and business representatives for the successful strike, highlighting the public's discontent with the current economic situation, reported 24NewsHD TV channel.

At a press conference in Rawalpindi, Baloch criticized the government for soaring inflation, expensive electricity, and excessive taxes, condemning the luxurious lifestyles of the rulers amidst widespread suffering.

He stated that the people are now rebelling against the economic crisis, which has made life increasingly difficult for the middle class.

Baloch also voiced strong opposition to the Independent Power Producers (IPPs) contracts, labelling them as unacceptable and accusing the government of pouring billions into these "blind wells" at the expense of the public.

He warned that today's strike is merely a "trailer" for a larger nationwide long march towards Islamabad, indicating that the people's peaceful resistance will intensify if the government does not heed their demands.

Baloch further criticized the rulers for enjoying free electricity, petrol, and benefits while the poor struggled to survive. He called for immediate relief from the heavy tax burden and stressed the need for respectable employment opportunities for future generations.

Reflecting on previous protests, Baloch mentioned the sit-in where Jamaat-e-Islami gave the government 45 days to provide relief. He criticized the government for failing to fulfil its promises, especially to traders and consumers, and accused the ruling parties of supporting the IPPs in exploiting the public.

In a direct message to the government, Baloch emphasized that the people are aware of the situation and will no longer tolerate deceit. He urged the government to provide relief by reducing electricity prices and interest rates or face the consequences of public outrage.

Baloch also accused India and the United States of being behind terrorism in Pakistan, particularly targeting the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). He called on politicians to prioritize national interests and unite to address the burning issues in Balochistan, urging them to stop relying on the establishment for support.