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By Edward Graham Sebbie
Cabinet has directed the Ministers for Finance and Energy to secure a reduction in fuel prices at the pumps in the next pricing window. This will be achieved through the temporary suspension of selected taxes and margins on petroleum products, which specific taxes and margins will be disclosed during the next pricing window.
The directive follows an emergency cabinet meeting convened to address rising fuel costs and their impact as a move by government to ease the burden on the public.
The measure will remain in effect for four weeks subject to review, taking into account developments in the Middle East conflict and fluctuations in global crude oil prices.
The Minister for Transport has been instructed to fast-track the deployment of 100 newly acquired Metro Mass Transit (MMT) buses, in addition to the existing fleet. These buses will be deployed along high-traffic corridors across major cities.
The directive further enjoins the sector minister to keep fares on these MMT buses at rates lower than those charged by private operators to provide affordable commuting options for the citizens during this period.
In line with the President’s earlier directive, all ministers and senior government appointees must strictly adhere to the cancellation of fuel allocations and fuel allowances, a measure which underscores government’s commitment to share in the sacrifices being asked of citizens.
These interventions come amid growing public concern over the sharp rise in fuel prices linked to volatility in the international crude oil markets and geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. Government reiterates its commitment to monitoring the situation closely and will take further action where necessary to protect livelihoods and maintain economic stability.
