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Traders Across Pakistan Prepare for Nationwide Strike on August 28
On August 28, traders across Pakistan will unite in a nationwide strike to protest the unbearable electricity costs and the continuation of Independent Power Producer (IPP) agreements. The Central Traders Association (CTA) and the Sindh Traders Alliance (STA) are leading this movement, emphasizing the dire need to safeguard the economy and prevent the closure of industries due to these skyrocketing expenses.
High Electricity Costs and IPP Agreements
The core issue driving this strike is the exorbitant electricity bills that businesses and individuals are being forced to pay. The IPP agreements, which have led to a staggering Rs2,800 billion in payments and the imposition of 13 different taxes on electricity, are at the heart of the traders’ grievances. No business, big or small, can sustain such overwhelming costs. This strike is not just a protest but a fight for survival.
CTA President’s Perspective
CTA President Kashif Chaudhry has been vocal about the necessity of this strike. He emphasized that the movement is not merely about leadership but about the very survival of businesses across the country. “The strike on August 28 will be observed in Karachi, Sindh, and across the country. We are not only protesting against the exorbitant electricity bills but also against the IPPs’ fraudulent agreements,” Chaudhry stated during a press conference at the Karachi Press Club.
The Impact of Unfair Taxation
Opposition to the Rs60,000 Monthly Shop Tax
One of the most contentious issues is the imposition of a Rs60,000 monthly tax on shops. Traders see this as a form of oppression, turning shopkeepers into tax collectors for the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR). Kashif Chaudhry expressed his strong opposition to this tax, vowing to resist any attempts by the FBR to inspect markets. “We reject advance tax notices and will resist any FBR team attempting to inspect the markets. If they come, we will encircle them,” he warned.
Call for Reversal of Anti-Trader Policies
Chaudhry also highlighted the need for a reversal of anti-trader policies, specifically those linked to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) deal. He stressed that negotiations must be held directly with the prime minister, as lower-level officials lack the authority to amend these policies
Support from Prominent Trader Leaders
Atiq Mir, a prominent leader within the trader community, condemned the current government for its perceived negligence towards the welfare of the people. He criticized the imposition of taxes on essential food items and the increase in electricity tariffs, which have led to widespread financial strain, and in extreme cases, suicides due to overwhelming bills. “Instead of easing the burden, they have exacerbated the crisis. The ruling class has not curtailed its luxuries but instead increased our hardships,” Mir stated.
Solidarity from Balochistan
The strike is not limited to Sindh alone. Representatives from Balochistan have also pledged their support, signaling the emergence of a broad-based protest movement that could have significant implications for the country’s economic landscape.
