ISLAMABAD: Significant developments have emerged in contacts between the government and Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) over the petroleum levy issue and the party’s proposed long march. According to sources, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held a meeting with JI Emir Hafiz Naeemur Rehman two days ago, which was not officially disclosed.
Sources said the prime minister contacted Hafiz Naeem after returning from his foreign visit, in line with a previous commitment, leading to the meeting between the two leaders.
During the meeting, the government reportedly sought a few more days to address the petroleum levy issue and assured the JI leadership that efforts would continue to resolve the matter through dialogue.
According to sources, the government also briefed the JI leadership on progress regarding its commitments. However, Jamaat-e-Islami declined to grant additional time.
The JI leadership reportedly made it clear that assurances alone would no longer be sufficient and that the government must implement its commitments without further delay.
According to JI sources, the party remains firm on its position. A large gathering in support of Gaza is scheduled to be held in Islamabad on October 7, during which the party is expected to announce its next course of action and potential protest strategy against the government.
