By Chisomo Phiri
The main opposition Malawi Congress Party (MCP), has expressed disappointment with the government’s decision to increase fuel prices.
Speaking at a press briefing in Lilongwe on Wednesday, MCP Publicity Secretary Jessie Kabwila said the party is surprised that within a short period of time the government has raised fuel prices several times.
Kabwila said the increases continue to worsen the lives of people who are already struggling due to the many taxes they are facing.
“When MCP left government, fuel was selling at K2,500 per litre. In just six months, it has risen to K6,000 per litre. During our five years in government we increased fuel prices by only K1,600, but the DPP has increased them by K4,000 in just six months. Malawians today are feeling the pain,” she said.
Kabwila added that the fuel price increase is a sign that the government has failed to address the problem of fuel shortages.
“Come and show us the notes explaining how we used to manage the situation. When you make such decisions without careful consideration, you end up hurting Malawians,” she said.
The MCP Publicity Secretary further said it is important for the government to be honest with the public and admit that the value of the Malawi Kwacha has weakened.
She also said the government should consider increasing salaries for civil servants so that they can more easily meet their daily needs.
