Hafiz Naeem Announces Sindh Assembly Sit-In for Karachi Rights on Feb 14
Preparations have begun for a major Karachi Rights Protest as Jamaat-e-Islami Pakistan chief Hafiz Naeemur Rehman announced a sit-in outside the Sindh Assembly on February 14. He said participants would observe fasting, offer prayers, and remain peaceful. As a result, the protest aims to demand long-denied rights for Karachi’s residents.
Addressing the “Let Karachi Live” march on Shahrah-e-Faisal, Hafiz Naeem said Karachi represents mini Pakistan. He stated that millions of residents want education and opportunities. However, he blamed rulers for ignoring the city’s needs.
Criticism of Governance and Urban Neglect
Hafiz Naeem strongly criticized feudal politics and elite control over Karachi. He said delayed responses during the Gul Plaza fire exposed official negligence. For example, he noted that city leaders arrived nearly a day late.
He also questioned the absence of federal leadership after the tragedy. According to him, victims received no meaningful relief or accountability. Therefore, public anger continues to grow.
He demanded constitutional powers for local governments. He rejected disputes between federal and provincial control. Instead, he called for empowering elected city institutions.
Demands, Sit-In Plan, and Accountability Call
The Jamaat-e-Islami leader urged protesters to stand firm for their children’s future. He criticized heavy spending on advertisements while roads remain broken. In addition, he highlighted transport issues faced by women and rising health risks due to pollution.
Hafiz Naeem accused political parties of undercounting Karachi’s population. He said the city still lacks water access for nearly half its residents. Moreover, major transport projects remain incomplete despite years of promises.
He announced that the February 14 sit-in would be historic. Protesters will fast, pray, and demand justice peacefully. At the same time, supporters in Islamabad will march toward Parliament.
He also demanded a transparent judicial inquiry into the Gul Plaza incident under the High Court Chief Justice. He stressed that cosmetic actions would not work.
Hafiz Naeem concluded that Jamaat-e-Islami seeks change, not power. He said Karachi deserves rights, dignity, and accountability—without compromise.
