Jamaat‑i‑Islami Emir Hafiz Naeemur Rehman has warned that continued denial of democratic rights and persistence of what he calls an oppressive system could trigger uncontrollable public anger in Pakistan. Speaking to the media after the concluding ceremony of Bukhari Sharif at Jamia Markaz Uloom‑e‑Islamia in Lahore, he called on authorities to address the people’s grievances before frustration boils over.
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Rehman demanded the establishment of a genuinely empowered local government system and the removal of restrictions on democratic freedoms, arguing that youth are being driven toward despair by shrinking access to education and employment and by rising electricity, gas and fuel prices. He also criticised the judiciary, alleging it has weakened under recent amendments that tighten elite control, and described the economy as benefiting only a select few.
Referring to the newly introduced local government law in Punjab, Rehman called it a “black law” imposed when people are already struggling to survive. He said Jamaat‑i‑Islami views resistance against what it deems an unjust and exploitative system as a national and moral obligation.
Warning the ruling elite to read the situation carefully, Rehman cautioned that once public frustration turns into open revolt, force or weapons will not suffice to suppress it. “When lawful avenues are blocked, people are pushed towards unlawful means,” he said, urging authorities to respect public opinion and restore people’s voice in governance.
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Rehman also criticised Pakistan’s ruling circles for seeking favour with foreign leaders rather than representing the aspirations of their own people. He called on religious scholars and students to unite beyond sectarian differences and reaffirmed Jamaat‑i‑Islami’s commitment to peaceful political resistance.