PAC labels latest fuel price increase a ‘death sentence’ for the poor

The Progressive Alliance (PAC) has denounced the most recent fuel price increase, asserting it will exacerbate the cost-of-living crisis impacting workers, the unemployed, and low-income households. The party claims that escalating fuel expenses will elevate the price of transportation, food, and other necessities. Effective at midnight, petrol prices are anticipated to surpass R30 per litre for the first time, while diesel has already surpassed R30 per litre.

The PAC is urging the government to swiftly regulate fuel prices and implement measures to safeguard the impoverished. PAC's Western Cape spokesperson, Mfusi Zonke, stated, "The PAC condemns this crippling fuel price increase. Workers, the unemployed, and rural poor are bearing the brunt. When fuel rises, everything rises: bread, taxi fares, and paraffin, yet wages remain unchanged."

Zonke described the increase as a "death sentence" for those already struggling to make ends meet. "For the unemployed, who already subsist on nothing, this increase is a death sentence. We demand an immediate reduction and regulation of fuel prices, coupled with subsidized public transport for workers and students," he added. With mere hours remaining before the latest fuel price hike takes effect, drivers are flocking to filling stations to fill their tanks before the midnight deadline.

From midnight, petrol prices will surge by between R3.12 and R3.33 per litre, contingent on the grade. Diesel prices will rise by R2.84 per litre to R3.24 per litre, contingent on the grade. These adjustments are founded on fluctuations in international oil prices, petroleum product costs, and other local pricing factors. For further details on all fuel price adjustments, see the complete statement.