Pakistan: Protests denouncing electricity tariff increases likely to persist nationwide through at least mid-September

Event

Protests denouncing electricity tariff increases are likely to continue across Pakistan through at least mid-September. Related rallies have occurred in multiple cities including Karachi, Lahore, Peshawar, Multan, Rawalpindi, and Islamabad since Aug. 25. Additionally, the opposition Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) has called for a nationwide strike Sept. 2 against rising electricity rates; trade associations and other bodies will probably take part in the strike. Previous well-attended gatherings have drawn hundreds of participants.

Activists typically gather after the Islamic afternoon prayer; possible protest locations include electricity distribution company offices, government buildings, public squares, and press clubs, as well as along major thoroughfares. Participants may hold demonstrations of varying types, including sit-ins and shut-down strikes.

Authorities will likely monitor protests that materialize and may move to disperse overly disruptive crowds. Clashes between police and activists cannot be ruled out. Demonstrators will probably march along or block roadways, prompting localized transport disruptions. Associated localized business disruptions are possible.

Context

The demonstrations came after the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) raised tariffs by Rs4.96 per unit in July, a condition set by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) as part of a USD 3 billion bailout package for Pakistan. In response, caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar held an emergency meeting on Aug. 27, instructing authorities to lower electricity prices within the next 48 hours.

Advice

Avoid all demonstrations as a precaution. Depart the area at the first sign of any security disturbance. Allow additional travel time near gathering sites. Plan accordingly for possible localized business disruptions. Heed all official transport and security advisories.