Nationwide Strike Flops: Public, Traders Say No to TLP

The nationwide strike called by Tehreek‑e‑Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) has largely failed as religious groups, civil society, and business leaders united in opposition. They argued that the strike’s road blockages, vandalism, and clashes hurt the public, the economy, and peace.

Trader leader Atif Akram Sheikh said that wrongful objections to government policies and violent protests only inflict losses on citizens. He warned that shuttering businesses leads to serious financial damage for traders. The President of the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) declared that business owners nationwide would not honor any strike—and that business would continue normally. Umar Butt, another trader leader, also confirmed that markets across the country would remain open on Friday as usual.

Prominent religious figures such as Hafiz Amir Hamza, Maulana Abdul Manan, Muhammad Ramzan Pirzada, and Maulana Haq Nawaz criticized the TLP’s protest timing and methods. Hafiz Amir Hamza said that since peace has been restored in Gaza and Palestinians are celebrating, there is no excuse for a strike in Pakistan. Maulana Abdul Manan warned that coercive tactics are neither Islamic nor ethical. Maulana Haq Nawaz claimed external forces—especially from India—are attempting to provoke unrest in Pakistan, and urged people not to participate in any foreign-driven conspiracy.

Social leader Zia-ul-Haq Qasim Khan Baloch condemned blocking roads and holding religious protest rallies, saying they are illegal, unethical, and severely harm patients, travelers, and ordinary citizens. In a joint demand, all the leaders called on TLP to end the strike and clear the roads to reduce public hardship. They stressed that the strike is not only against national interest but also damages peace and stability in the country.