JI for united front against 'failed system'

Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) Emir Hafiz Naeemur Rehman on Tuesday called for a united movement against the prevailing system, saying districts like Battagram remained deprived of basic facilities despite contributing to national resources. Addressing a large public gathering titled "Haq Do Battagram Ko, Badal Do Nizam", organised by JI, he said the district, which produces 120 megawatts of electricity, continues to face power shortages. He also lamented the systemic challenges, noting that around 2.3 million cases were pending in courts across Pakistan, raising questions over the judicial system, while unemployment was rising, and access to healthcare remains limited. He urged people to unite and take a stand against the system, saying the country spends 45 per cent of its income on debt servicing, which hampers development. He said Islam promotes unity and that his party seeks to bring people together beyond divisions. Commenting on global developments, he blasted Israeli actions in Palestine and said only Jamaat-e-Islami stood with Palestinians, while also condemning US actions against Iran and later engagement in ceasefire talks. He expressed support for Iran's stance and said Pakistan must move away from US policies and take independent decisions. Hafiz Naeem said Jamaat-e-Islami serves the public even without being in government and announced that the party would provide free IT education to youth in Battagram. Slamming dynastic politics, he said leadership in other parties is inherited, while in his party it is earned through service. He questioned why people in districts like Battagram are deprived of basic facilities, noting that 75,000 children are out of school. He said the party is launching a movement for a uniform and compulsory education system from April 25, aiming to reach people at the village level. He added that JI would contest elections on every seat in village councils and strive to secure people's rights, urging citizens to support the party to bring change. The gathering was also addressed by Hazara division JI chief Abdul Razzaq Abbasi and local leaders Saeed Ahmed Malkal, Anwar Baig and Dr Himayatullah, who said people must support Jamaat-e-Islami to end deprivation in Battagram. Earlier, Hafiz Naeem was brought to the venue in a large motorcade of hundreds of vehicles and was accorded a warm welcome upon arrival, after which he thanked participants.