Islamabad, President of Jamiat Ulema Pakistan and National Unity Council, Dr. Sahibzada Abul Khair Muhammad Zubair, criticized the federal budget for not effectively tackling the country’s economic issues, including inflation and unemployment, and for continuing to rely heavily on an interest-based financial system.

According to Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam Pakistan, Dr. Zubair voiced concerns over the government’s recent budget, stating that while there have been reductions in petrol and electricity costs and promises of employment opportunities, there have been no substantial measures to curb inflation or boost production. He also mentioned that the budget has failed to provide adequate education, health, and basic amenities, while protecting elite interests. Dr. Zubair emphasized that the government’s focus on increasing tax collections without revitalizing the industry will lead to higher unemployment and insufficient tax revenue, which will further hinder economic development.

Dr. Zubair argued that the reliance on an interest-based system, which he referred to as a “war with Allah,” is the largest impediment to the nation’s development and prosperity. He warned that the ongoing implementation of such a system not only exacerbates economic disparity and misery among citizens but also deepens the country’s debt. He also highlighted that the expected continuation of IMF programs indicates a lack of long-term solutions to these systemic issues. In his view, the only viable solution for genuine progress is to liberate the economy from the burdens of the usury system.