KP Chief Minister Afridi criticizes fuel price hike amid Middle East tensions

PESHAWAR: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Chief Minister Muhammad Sohail Afridi on Saturday voiced strong opposition to the recent increase in petroleum prices, describing the move as unjustified. Afridi emphasized that ongoing tensions in the Middle East, particularly between Iran, the United States, and Israel, should not be used as a pretext to impose additional financial burdens on the public.

The chief minister made these remarks during a meeting with federal ministers for finance and petroleum, Muhammad Aurangzeb and Ali Pervaiz Malik, respectively. The meeting was convened to assess the potential impact of the escalating regional tensions on Pakistan’s petroleum supply lines and the broader implications for the country's economy.

In an official statement released by his office, Afridi stated, “It did not reflect sound governance for governments to continue unnecessary and excessive expenditures while shifting the consequences.” He further asserted that it is the responsibility of governments to provide relief to citizens during challenging periods, rather than transferring the burden of crises directly onto the public.

Afridi’s comments come amid concerns that disruptions in petroleum supply due to geopolitical developments in the Middle East could lead to further price increases. He urged federal authorities to prioritize the welfare of citizens and ensure that any policy decisions regarding fuel prices are made with the public’s interests in mind.

The meeting highlighted the need for a coordinated response to potential supply challenges, while also stressing the importance of fiscal discipline at all levels of government. Afridi reiterated his stance that citizens should not bear the brunt of external crises, and called for measures to mitigate the impact of international developments on domestic fuel prices.