Rising fuel prices are a testament to ANC's misguided economic policy
2 August 2023
The ANC government's centrally controlled fuel pricing policy has, yet again, dealt another blow to already battling South African citizens. The exorbitant rise in fuel prices, announced earlier this week and effective from today, represents an exploitative and untenable burden on South African consumers.
The timing of this sharp increase, with petrol grades rising by 37 cents per litre and diesel escalating by between 71 cents, could not be worse. With unemployment having reached a staggering 42%, the constant threat of power cuts, a weakening Rand, and crumbling service delivery, the ANC government’s refusal to review the fuel pricing model and alleviate the burden of the fuel levy adds to the unrelenting pressure on households.
South Africa, under the ANC, has seen a massive surge in fuel taxes. The cumulative 225% rise in the fuel levy, a 119% increment in the basic fuel price, and a significant 425% hike in the Road Accident Fund levy since 2008 is indicative of Government's apathy towards the well-being of its people. Low-income and vulnerable segments of the population bear the brunt of these increases, while the privileged ANC ministers enjoy taxpayer-funded perks and privileges, exempt from the economic hardships facing the average citizen.
South African households are being squeezed from all sides - unable to afford basic transport or sufficient food due to these increases and the consequent rise in food prices. In this government-induced crisis, it is clear that the ANC administration has failed to adequately address the cost-of-living crisis and protect its citizens.