Mehanti equates IMF loans with slavery

Sindh Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) Emir Muhammad Hussain Mehanti on Saturday termed seeking loans from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) enmity with the country.

Mahenti argued that IMF loans were a ‘dangerous shortcut’ that benefitted the elite while burdening ordinary Pakistanis. "History shows that nations seeking IMF loans sink deeper into problems," he said as he addressed a party meeting. He equated reliance on such loans with entanglement in the chains of slavery.

Questioning the legitimacy of the government, the JI leader cast doubt on its ability to protect the citizens' rights. He reiterated the JI's commitment to implementing the Shariah law, establishing an Islamic and prosperous Pakistan, and freeing the country from the IMF’s dependence.

Mehanti blamed the ‘impractical conditions’ of the IMF loans for Pakistan's current economic, political and ethical crises. He highlighted rising costs of electricity, fuel and essential goods, emphasising the hardship faced by ordinary citizens.