Political parties express deep concern over decision to raise fuel prices

Bangla Press Desk: Several political parties have expressed deep concern over the government’s decision to raise fuel prices, urging an immediate review of the move.

In separate statements sent to the media on Sunday, party leaders called on the government to reconsider the decision, with some also suggesting exploring alternative energy solutions.

The Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Division announced on Saturday night that prices of four types of fuel would increase by Tk 15 to Tk 20 per litre, effective from midnight.

Jamaat-e-Islami Secretary General Mia Golam Porwar said diesel prices have been raised by Tk 15 per litre, kerosene by Tk 18, octane by Tk 20, and petrol by Tk 19.

 “Such sector-wise price hikes will have a negative impact on the overall economy,” he said, expressing “deep concern” and protesting what he described as a decision against public interest.

He warned that higher fuel prices would increase transport costs, directly affecting essential commodities and pushing up overall living expenses.

 “The middle- and low-income groups will suffer the most. Their income will not rise, but their expenditure will increase significantly, making normal life increasingly difficult,” he said, calling for the decision to be revised and prices brought to a tolerable level.

Islami Andolan Bangladesh chief Syed Muhammad Rezaul Karim, popularly known as Charmonai Pir, said the hike would make life “more difficult and burdensome”.

 “Fuel prices are linked to all aspects of daily life, including commodity prices and transport costs. Any increase leads to a rise in overall expenses, disproportionately affecting low- and middle-income people,” he said.

He urged the government not to “make ordinary people bear the burden” of global challenges and instead focus on alternative solutions.

Revolutionary Workers Party General Secretary Saiful Haque also criticised the move, saying it would worsen the hardships of millions already struggling with rising prices.

 “The abnormal increase in fuel prices amid an ongoing energy crisis is unacceptable,” he said.

Referring to global trends, he said when oil prices dropped to around $90 per barrel during the Iran-US ceasefire period, consumers should have benefited, rather than being forced to pay higher prices.

He also pointed to “widespread corruption, mismanagement and system loss” in the energy sector, suggesting that reducing these by even 10 percent could eliminate the need for price hikes.

Meanwhile, Jamaat also expressed concern over the increase in liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) prices.

On Sunday, the Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission raised the price of a 12kg LPG cylinder by Tk 212, setting it at Tk 1,940.

"Two consecutive hikes in such a short time will make public life miserable," added Porwar, referring to an earlier price jump on Apr 2.