MULTAN: The Multan Chamber of Small Traders, led by President Zafar Iqbal Siddiqui, along with Chairman Ihtesham-ul-Haq, Vice Chairman Mian Zafar Iqbal, General Secretary Aziz-ur-Rehman Ansari, and other notable members including Malik Tahir Dogar, District President Sheikh Tahir Amjad, Malik Akhtar Hussain, Haji Asghar Akbar, Sheikh Ghulam Murtaza, Rehmat Ali Qureshi, Khawaja Yasir Ashfaq, and Khawaja Ammar Yasir, have expressed deep concern over the country’s ongoing political unrest and its adverse impact on the economy.
In a joint statement issued after their meeting, the chamber leaders emphasized that the current political tensions and government measures are causing significant damage to the already fragile economy. The suspension of internet services and poor internet speeds have exacerbated the challenges for individuals relying on online earning platforms. They urged the government to immediately restore WhatsApp and improve internet speed to facilitate online economic activities.
The chamber highlighted that Pakistan’s economy is already grappling with a crisis, and further disruption due to political instability could be catastrophic. They pointed out that political turmoil and the nationwide shutdown have resulted in an estimated loss of PKR 600 billion, with the actual economic damage potentially far exceeding this figure.
The trade leaders stressed that political stability is essential for achieving economic stability. They called on the government and political parties to come together and find a solution through dialogue to address the prevailing issues. “The well-being of the nation should take precedence over individual interests,” they said, adding that a robust democratic system and a stable economy are key to solving Pakistan’s social challenges.
The chamber demanded immediate government action to restore internet services and improve digital infrastructure to prevent further economic losses.
The meeting was attended by President Zafar Iqbal Siddiqui, Chairman Ihtesham-ul-Haq, Vice Chairman Mian Zafar Iqbal, General Secretary Aziz-ur-Rehman Ansari, and other key members of the chamber.
