By: Bright Ntuli
ANC President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed concern over looming fuel price hikes, warning that the increases could place further strain on already struggling households and businesses.
The latest data from the Central Energy Fund points to a petrol price increase of more than R5 per litre, while diesel is expected to rise by over R9 per litre in the coming adjustment cycle.
Ramaphosa was speaking on the sidelines of the ANC Limpopo elective conference on Sunday, where economic pressures facing South Africans featured prominently in discussions.
He said he has instructed the relevant ministers to urgently develop proposals aimed at cushioning consumers from the impact of the steep fuel price increases.
“These rising costs affect every part of the economy, from transport to food prices,” Ramaphosa noted, adding that government is exploring various interventions to mitigate the burden on citizens.
Further details on the proposed measures are expected to be announced once consultations within government have been finalised.
