Traders to go on nationwide strike on August 28 to protest high electricity costs

Leaders of the Central Traders Association (CTA) and Sindh Traders Alliance (STA) announced a nationwide strike on August 28 in protest against high electricity costs and the continuation of IPP agreements. 

They warned that if their demands are not met, a two-day or indefinite strike may follow. The announcement was made during a press conference at the Karachi Press Club on Sunday.

CTA President Kashif Chaudhry stated that the strike aims to safeguard the economy and prevent the closure of industries. He emphasised that the protest is not just a leadership issue but a matter of business survival. 

“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, the Rs2,800 billion in payments, and the 13 taxes on electricity. No individual or business can sustain such high electricity bills,” Chaudhry said.

He criticised the imposition of a Rs60,000 monthly tax on shops, describing it as a form of oppression. “With this tax, shopkeepers will essentially have to work as tax collectors for the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR). 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.

Chaudhry also highlighted the need for the reversal of the trader-friendly scheme and stressed that negotiations would be sought directly with the prime minister as no one below his level has the authority to amend the IMF deal-related policies.

Atiq Mir, another prominent trader leader, condemned the current government for its perceived negligence towards the people’s welfare. 

“The rulers have imposed taxes on food items and increased electricity tariffs, leading to suicides over high 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 said.

Representatives from Balochistan also pledged their support for the strike, indicating a broad-based protest movement.