From ‘Dynamic Youth to Digital Pakistan’: Here’s Jamaat-e-Islami’s promising plan to navigate Pakistan’s future

As political bigwigs have failed to go beyond clichéd promises and present a clear roadmap for the revival of the country’s ailing economy in their manifesto documents, Jamaat-e-Islami taps on real issues for the masses.

From Inclusive Growth and Accountability to the rule of Human Rights & Welfare, and Women’s Welfare to Dynamic Youth, the country’s oldest party JI hopefuls jostle to turn around the ailing economy.

Sirajul Haq-led party chalked out comprehensive manifesto tapping Overseas Pakistani, Agriculture & Rural Development, Labour Welfare, Non-Muslim Community Senior Citizens, & Special Persons, Digital Pakistan, National Security, and Independent Foreign Policy.

As the country of over 241 million is facing the worst economic and political crisis in recent times, Jamaat-e-Islami’s Election 2024 Manifesto, aspires to transform economic, social, and political landscape of Pakistan, advocating for a system grounded in the principles of the Quran and Sunnah, akin to the Islamic state of Madinah.

For the right-wing party, rule of Quran and Sunnah supremacy is of paramount importance, aligning with the Constitution of Pakistan to ensure these holy sources transform nation’s values.

Jamaat-e-Islami Chief Sirajul Haq’s Message

What is Jamaat-e-Islami’s development-centric Manifesto for Elections 2024?

Siraj-ul-Haq-led Pakistan’s oldest party Jamaat-e-Islami hopeful jostle to turn around ailing economy. #JIMenifesto #HaqinPunjab #MyFirstVote4Tarazu pic.twitter.com/mNmdVwCemv

— Pakistan Observer (@pakobserver) February 6, 2024

Jamaat-e-Islami Vision

Jamaat-e-Islami Pakistan (JIP) envisions a Pakistan that stands as an exemplary Islamic, democratic, prosperous, and developed state, embracing the principles of justice, compassion, and progress.

Supremacy of Quran and Sunnah
Rule of Law, Constitution, and Democracy
Progress and Prosperity of the People of Pakistan
Prosperous Provinces and Society
Women Welfare
Interest-Free Economy
Human Rights
Security, Defense, Foreign Policy

Jamaat-e-Islami Objectives

Supremacy of Quran and Sunnah
Finality of the Prophethood
Protection of the basic Human Rights
Protection of Women’s Rights
Elimination of Non-Islamic Laws
Reformation of the Islamic Ideological Council
Interest-free Economy
Support to the Underprivileged
Legitimate Earnings
Promotion of Religious and Sectarian Harmony
Islamic Education
Support to Masajid and Madrassas:
Minorities Freedom
Restoration of Friday’s Holiday

Democratic Pakistan

Strong Parliament

JIP envisions a robust and empowered Parliament, serving as the guardian of Islam, the constitution, democracy, and the fundamental human rights, in accordance with the vision of Allama Iqbal and the Quaid-e-Azam.

Electoral Reforms

JIP recognizes the importance of free, transparent, and impartial elections as the cornerstone of a thriving democratic system. To this end, the party will spearhead electoral reforms in close consultation with other political parties.

JIP aims to foster harmony among political parties, advocating for the adoption of the proportional representation method in elections. This approach ensures that no vote goes to waste and every party receives representation in the Parliament and Provincial assembly proportionate to their vote share.

The party is determined to eradicate the influence of unseen forces on elections and address issues related to electoral expenditures. JIP will put an end to the practice of blackmailing and horse-trading by electables, promoting a more principled and accountable electoral process.

Constitutional Reforms

Urdu as the National Language and Medium of Basic Education: Urdu will be designated as the National language and will serve as a medium of basic education, promoting linguistic unity and cultural identity.

Examinations in Urdu and English for Higher Designations, Shifting NAB’s Jurisdiction to Judiciary, Discouraging VIP Culture and Unnecessary Protocol, Reviewing Legislation on External Pressure, Strengthening Local Government and Transfer of Authority, Preventing Extra-Judicial Killings and Violence, Appointment of Qualified Judges, Full Implementation of Constitutional Articles, Recognition of Federal Shariah Court Judgments.

Empowered Inclusive Local Governments

Jamaat emphasizes the importance of strong and empowered local governments as an essential component of effective governance.

Independent Media

JIP recognizes the crucial role of media in promoting transparency, accountability, and freedom of expression. The party is committed to fostering an independent and responsible media environment, implementing the following measures:

Ensuring Security for Media Workers, Combating Fake News, Promoting Islamic Civilization, Code of Conduct to Regulate Content, Digital Media Policy.

Inclusive Growth and Accountability

To achieve a robust economy and efficient governance, a comprehensive plan will be implemented through collaboration with political parties, economists, and other stakeholders.

One significant step towards economic stability is the termination of the interest-based banking system, paving the way for an economy rooted in sound financial management and permissible sources of income. Additionally, the prevailing culture of luxury and VIP privileges within the government will be replaced with a more streamlined and simplified governance style.

The party aims to streamline tax systems, comprehensive reforms will be introduced both at the central and provincial levels, with a commitment to maintain the General Sales Tax at less than 5%. Furthermore, to encourage business growth and reduce bureaucracy interference, the One Window Business Project will be established.

In pursuit of a globally integrated economy, transaction fees for cash transfers both domestically and internationally will be reduced by banks. Furthermore, efforts will be made to bridge the economic gap among different segments of society by ensuring the equal distribution of wealth and resources.

Tourism and Environment

In order to promote tourism, efforts will be directed towards developing tourist destinations in Northern areas, Upper Dir, Swat, Gilgit, Baltistan, Chitral, Sindh, Balochistan, Punjab, and Azad Kashmir. New roads will be constructed to facilitate easy access to these locations, and special planning will ensure the welfare and progress of local communities.

Across-the-board Accountability

A robust and stringent accountability system will be established to eradicate bribery, kickbacks, commission, and all forms of corruption. An honest, competent, and respected individual will be appointed as the Chairman of the National Accountability Bureau (NAB).

Human Rights and Welfare

The judicial system will uphold the principles of justice based on the Quran and Sunnah, ensuring that no court delivers verdicts conflicting with these sacred sources. To expedite trials, the judicial system will be re-organized through consultations with higher judiciary and legal experts, ensuring a more efficient and speedy process.

Education for All

Education will be recognized as a fundamental human right, accessible to every citizen regardless of their background. The implementation of a Single National Curriculum across the country will ensure uniformity and quality in education.

The curriculum will be designed in accordance with the teachings of the Quran and Sunnah, emphasizing Islamic values and the Ideology of Pakistan. Alongside academic subjects, technical education, civil awareness, road safety, health, and character-building topics will be integrated into the syllabus.

Health for All

A comprehensive healthcare plan will ensure free medical services in all hospital OPDs and emergencies, guaranteeing access to quality medical care for all citizens. To cater to the needs of expecting mothers, maternity hospitals will be established in both urban and rural areas, ensuring their proximity for easy access.

A public awareness campaign will be launched to prioritize child and maternal health within families, leading to healthier communities. Legislation will be enacted to implement Universal Health Care, ensuring healthcare reaches all citizens.

Residence for All

A progressive housing policy will focus on distributing empty land to deserving individuals on the condition that they build homes on it. Soft-loans will be provided to low-income individuals for the purchase of plots and construction of houses.

Interest on loans from the House Building Finance Co-operation will be waived, aiding aspiring homeowners. The establishment of a Real Estate Authority will regulate land prices, curbing illegal practices.

Employment for All

The ban on jobs in federal, provincial, and local governments will be lifted, and vacancies will be filled solely on merit, promoting a fair and efficient workforce. Entrepreneurship will be encouraged, and interest-free loans will be offered to support personal businesses.

Prioritizing inclusivity, less-educated individuals will be given employment opportunities. For educated but unemployed individuals, a temporary unemployment allowance will be provided to ease financial burdens.

Food Supply on Affordable Rates for All

To ensure food security, essential commodities like milk, vegetables, fruits, flour, sugar, and cooking oil will be made available at affordable rates. Price Control Committees comprising male and female representatives and local Ulama will be established to monitor and regulate prices.

Cheap bazaars will be set up to cater to the needs of the poor and lower-middle-class citizens, ensuring accessibility to essential goods at reasonable prices. These comprehensive measures will promote a prosperous and inclusive Pakistan, where every citizen can thrive.

Federation and Provinces

Each province will be granted the primary right to its resources, and the National Finance Commission will conduct periodic reviews to ensure equitable distribution of resources between the Federation and the provinces. The financial awards approved by the National Finance Commission will be promptly implemented, providing timely financial resources to the provinces.

To foster growth in rural areas, agro-based industries will be established, creating job opportunities and economic prosperity. The Inter-Province Ministry and Council of Common Interest will be reinvigorated to settle affairs effectively.

Peace and Prosperity in Balochistan

The people of Balochistan will be given priority in utilizing the resources and benefits from the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and Balochistan’s natural resources. Immediate steps will be taken to combat poverty, illiteracy, and backwardness in the region.

Shining KPK

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) will be given the first right to its natural gas, petrol, minerals, and electricity resources. To ensure a fair share of resources, KP’s allocation in the National Finance Commission Award will be increased.

Simplifying cross-border travel, a special card will be issued to Pakistani and Afghan citizens to travel across the border, with visa fees abolished. Local traders will receive preferential facilities to promote trade with Central Asia.

Strong Sindh

Sindh will receive its rightful share of natural gas and mineral resources. Through the Provincial Finance Commission, resources will be equitably distributed among all districts.

To protect the interests of victims affected by housing societies and schemes, a real estate authority will be established at the provincial level. The completion of the Thar Coal Project will prioritize local employment, and a public sector university will be established to utilize project income.

Wind energy projects will be initiated along the coastal belt of Sindh. Modern waste management systems will be introduced in cities like Karachi, Hyderabad, and Larkana, ensuring cleanliness and sanitation.

Karachi Electric (KE) will be reorganized, and measures will be implemented to curb unnecessary electricity price hikes. Modern buses will be introduced to enhance transportation services.

Administrative reforms will be introduced to make the Local Government of Karachi financially independent. The completion of projects like K-4 water supply and water discharge from Karachi will be prioritized.

Youths in Karachi will be offered job opportunities based on merit, empowering the city’s workforce. Efforts will be made to turn Karachi into a clean and well-managed metropolis through efficient waste management.

Agreements with movements like “Haqooq do Karachi Ko” will be faithfully implemented to address Karachi’s concerns and needs.

Green Punjab

To ensure equitable development, resources will be distributed equally among districts through the Provincial Finance Commission. New cities will be developed near major urban centers to control the expansion of big cities.

A comprehensive rural development project, providing urban facilities, will be initiated to halt the migration of rural populations to large cities. Emphasis will be placed on agricultural development, with farmers provided cheap electricity and modern machinery.

A ban will be enforced on converting agricultural lands in Punjab into housing societies. To promote agricultural self-sufficiency, Agricultural Zones will be established according to seasons and land availability.

Women Welfare and Protection

Free Education
Equal Opportunities for Higher Education
Strengthening Family Institutes
Property Rights
Laws
Eradication of Un-Islamic Practices
Divorce Laws
Work Environment
Employment for Widows and Divorced
Maternity Leave and Child Care:
Convenient Job Placements
Flexible Working Hours
Dedicated Facilities
Transport Services
Business Opportunities
Skill Development

Dynamic Youth

In our pursuit of building a prosperous society, we recognize the pivotal role of the youth, sports, and art in shaping a vibrant and dynamic nation. To empower our young generation, we have formulated the following comprehensive plan.

Revival of Student Unions
District Youth Assemblies
Youth Banks for Entrepreneurship
Comprehensive Support Centers
Youth Representation in Governance
Facilitating Deserving Marriages
Boosting Sports at Grassroots Level
Promoting Diverse Sports
Merit-Based Selection for National Teams
Encouraging Indoor Games
Women in Sports
Training for Athletes
Nurturing Islamic Fine Art
Overseas Pakistanis

Jamaat e Islami claims committed to upholding the rights of our esteemed overseas Pakistanis, recognizing their invaluable contributions to the nation’s progress.

Protection of Overseas Pakistanis Authority
Right to Vote
Streamlined Documentation
Visitor Facilitation
Reduced Bank Transaction Fees
Mohsin-e-Pakistan National Award
Encouraging Investments
Agricultural and Rural Development

The party’s vision for agricultural and rural development focuses on empowering farmers and ensuring their well-being. To achieve this, a comprehensive set of initiatives will be implemented.

Affordable Agricultural Supplies
Land Allocation for Cultivation
Interest-Free Loans
Elimination of Agricultural Loan Interest
Tax Incentives for Modern Farming
Encouraging Local Industries
Cold Storage Facilities
Zoning for Crop Planning
Support for Agricultural Graduates
Protection of Agricultural Land
Streamlining Supply Chains
Strengthening Co-operative Societies
Promoting Agricultural Research
Food Security
Water Conservation and Management:
Renewable Energy for Agriculture:
Advanced Irrigation Techniques
Empowering Farmers in Decision-Making
Focus on Agricultural Exports
Livestock Development
Promoting Fisheries
Value Addition in Industrial Exports
Boosting Productivity
Infrastructure Development
Agricultural Commission

Labour Force

The party also aims commitment to creating a prosperous society includes a comprehensive approach to empowering our valued labour force.

a) National Labour Policy
b) Model of Industrial Relationships
c) Secure Employment
d) Fair Wages
e) Registration of Workers
f) Secure Pension System
g) Labour Laws
h) Effective Utilization of Funds
i) Trade Union Elections
j) Inclusion in Budget Making
k) Code of Conduct for Industrial Relations
l) Transparent Information Display
m) Streamlined Payment Systems
n) Workers as Shareholders
o) Strengthened Labour Rules
p) Worker Welfare Card
q) Safety Training
r) Protection in Cases of Accidents
s) Labour Courts under High Court Jurisdiction

Non-Muslim Pakistani Community

To create an inclusive and harmonious society, we will refer to the non-Muslim population as the Pakistani Community, avoiding the term “minority” which may carry a connotation of marginalization.

Equal Rights and Opportunities
Protection of Religious Rights
Religious Laws and Justice
Zero Tolerance for Unfair Treatment

Senior Citizens, Special People and Employees

Adjusted Salaries and Pensions
Tax Exemptions
Streamlined Pension System
Discounts
Dedicated Counters
Education and Employment for Special Persons

Digital Pakistan

The vision of Digital Pakistan is to embrace the power of technology and digitalization to propel our nation towards a brighter future. To achieve this, the following transformative measures will be implemented:

Comprehensive Digitalization
Digital Reorganization of FBR
IT Development Institutions
Recognition and Incentives for Innovators
Pakistan Digital Programme
Data Science and AI

National Security

To safeguard the sovereignty and prosperity of Pakistan, a comprehensive National Security Policy will be established, rooted in our Islamic values, democratic principles, and commitment to welfare.

Inclusive Consultation
Nuclear Deterrence
Pursuit of Global Peace
Modernization of Armed Forces
Safety of Nuclear Assets
Defense Budget
Merit-Based Appointments
Indigenous Weapons Production
Elimination of Discretionary Spending
Compulsory Military Training
Safeguarding Sensitive Information

Foreign Policy

JI’s foreign policy will be grounded in the core principles of Islam, centered on securing the unity and security of Pakistan, championing the freedom of Jammu and Kashmir, and supporting the right to self-determination for the Kashmiri people.