A large number of JI workers, including women and children, attended the gathering and chanted slogans. The rally was held as part of the party’s campaign against the petroleum levy.
JI Emir Hafiz Naeemur Rehman said the party had only paused its long march towards Islamabad and had not abandoned the movement. He warned that if the government failed to provide relief and abolish the petroleum levy, the march would resume towards Islamabad.
Hafiz Naeem said the government should stop what he described as oppressive tactics and reduce petroleum prices by abolishing the levy. He also criticised government spending and called for an end to what he described as unnecessary expenditures.
He said JI wanted the petroleum levy abolished and would continue its campaign until its demands were addressed.
JI Vice Emir Liaquat Baloch said the Lahore rally demonstrated the party’s ability to organise peaceful protests despite the presence of police.
Baloch said the government had been brought to the negotiating table through JI’s previous protests and sit-ins. He called on Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to announce the abolition of the petroleum levy after returning to Pakistan.
He said the party had temporarily paused its long march in Multan following the prime minister’s request and assurances regarding talks. Baloch warned that if the government failed to fulfil its commitments, the long march would move forward from Multan.
Before the rally, Lahore administration and police reportedly reached the venue and removed stage equipment, chairs and other material, according to JI representatives.
Despite the reported restrictions, JI workers from Lahore and surrounding areas gathered at the designated venue and held the rally.
JI leaders said the party would continue its nationwide campaign against the petroleum levy and would announce its next course of action based on the government’s response.
