The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) notes the impending fuel price catastrophe for South Africans that will push the cost of living to unbearable levels and expose, once again, a government that has abandoned its responsibility to protect its people.
South Africa is facing record-breaking increases, with petrol expected to rise by between R5.31 per litre (93 unleaded) and R5.82 per litre (95 unleaded), while diesel is projected to surge by an alarming R10.13 to R10.27 per litre. These shocking increases will push petrol prices to around R25.50 at the coast and over R26.30 inland, while diesel could exceed R28 to R29 per litre before retail margins, placing immense pressure on every sector of the economy.
While the instability in the Middle East has highly affected this increase, this crisis has not emerged without warning as there have been clear calls for government to intervene through fuel tax relief and other measures to cushion the blow. Yet, despite establishing a Cabinet committee, no decisive intervention has been announced. This failure to act is not an accident, it is a reflection of a government that is indifferent to the suffering of its people, and one that continues to prioritise revenue collection over human survival. Instead of providing relief, the government has worsened the situation by still going ahead with the increase in fuel-related levies announced in the 2026 Budget. At a time when South Africans are already struggling, this demonstrates a government that is not only absent, but actively hostile to the interests of consumers and citizens.
The consequences of this hike will be severe and immediate: the cost of transport and logistics will rise sharply, driving up food prices and the cost of basic goods. Businesses will face increased operating costs, which will be passed directly onto consumers. Inflation will intensify, placing further pressure on households and limiting any prospects of economic relief. For millions of South Africans, this will mean deeper poverty, increased hunger, and a daily struggle for survival.
The EFF maintains that fuel is not a luxury but it is a strategic economic input that affects every aspect of life. Allowing such drastic increases without intervention is a political choice, and one that exposes the anti-poor character of the current administration.
The EFF therefore calls for the immediate suspension or reduction of all fuel levies, urgent state intervention to stabilise fuel prices, and direct relief measures for workers, commuters, and small businesses. The EFF stands with the people and will continue to fight for an economy that prioritises the needs of the majority over profit and indifference.
The EFF has been involved in high-profile parliamentary disruptions to draw attention to issues.
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Fun South African Fact: The oldest remains of modern humans were found in South Africa and are well over 160,000 years old.