Islamabad, January 27, 2026: Ameer Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) Punjab Dr. Tariq Saleem on Tuesday said that the living conditions of the people cannot improve under what he termed the “Form 47 government,” claiming that the country’s entire system has become obsolete and corrupt.
Addressing participants from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan at the Markazi Tarbiyat Gaah, Dr. Tariq Saleem stressed that Pakistan cannot progress without fundamental systemic change. He said the country’s multiple crises require a collective struggle and urged people from all walks of life to join Jamaat-e-Islami to become part of what he described as a movement for transformation.
He also strongly criticized Pakistan’s reported decision to join US President Donald Trump’s so-called Gaza Peace Board, calling the move unacceptable under any circumstances. Dr. Tariq Saleem said neither the nation nor parliament was taken into confidence on such a significant decision and questioned the basis on which the government decided to become part of the initiative. He added that even a “Form 47 Parliament” should have been consulted before taking such a step.
Commenting on the situation in Punjab, the JI Punjab Ameer said that Basant is not a cultural festival but has turned into a deadly activity claiming precious human lives every year. He expressed serious concern over the Punjab government’s decision to celebrate Basant from February 6 to 8, terming it irresponsible and equivalent to playing with human lives.
Dr. Tariq Saleem said that deaths caused by sharp kite strings, people falling from rooftops, serious injuries to motorcyclists, and permanent disabilities among children are reported every year during Basant, adding that history bears witness to these recurring tragedies. Despite this, he said, the government continues to promote what he termed a “bloody festival” with complete disregard for public safety.
He demanded a complete and effective ban on Basant and strict action against those involved in the manufacture, sale, and use of dangerous kite strings. He stressed that the protection of citizens’ lives and property must be the government’s top priority, reiterating that Jamaat-e-Islami will not accept politics at the cost of human lives and will continue to raise its voice at all forums for public safety.
