Historic Fuel Price Hike Sparks Political Backlash and Strike Threats
Senior leader of Khawaja saad Rafique from the Pakistan Muslim League (N) acknowledged the government's constraints but warned of devastating consequences. He stated that the surge in fuel prices would lead to an extreme rise in inflation, questioning how ordinary citizens would survive. He added that while meeting IMF conditions, the poor could be pushed to the brink, and the middle class may fall below the poverty line.
Meanwhile, the Oil Tanker Contractors Association has threatened to go on strike following the price hike. Association President Abdullah Afridi announced that no oil tankers would be loaded from tomorrow, stating that operating under current freight rates is no longer viable and could result in severe financial losses.
On the other hand, Hafiz Naeem ur Rehman, leader of Jamaat-e-Islami Pakistan, strongly rejected the increase, calling it a “petrol bomb” on the public. He also announced a nationwide protest movement against the government's decision.