ISLAMABAD: Jamaat-i-Islami’s Emir Sirajul Haq has attributed the deterioration of the economy to corruption, mismanagement and reliance on an interest-based financial system and emphasised the need for a competent leadership to rectify these issues.

Addressing a seminar titled ‘JI’s Strategy for Revival of the National Economy’ at the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI) on Monday, Mr Haq criticised the past rulers for their failure to pay heed to the recommendations of economic experts and business chambers, contrasting this with the global practice where governments typically gave weight to such advices.

He argued that the ruling elite often prioritised their own interests, resulting in the hijacking of politics and democracy by corrupt elements. Highlighting the economic progress of the neighbouring countries, Mr Haq lamented the contrast in Pakistan, where citizens were queuing up for basic necessities like flour.

He announced the JI’s commitment to a peaceful struggle for the rights of the people, mentioning an upcoming sit-in protest in front of the Governor House in Karachi scheduled for October 6.

He also announced the JI’s intention to initiate the Green Pakistan Project after coming into power with the support of the people. The initiative, according to him, aims to allocate millions of currently unused acres of land to skilled young individuals, with the goal of transforming it into productive, fertile land for agriculture.

Mr Haq outlined a plan for the nation’s development over a 50-year period, emphasising the incorporation of the plan into the national curriculum. He proposed replacing the existing taxation system with a model based on Zakat, enabling over 70 million people to contribute to the national economy and combat poverty. r

Published in Dawn, October 3rd, 2023