An emergency Cabinet session has outlined a series of urgent measures to address rising fuel prices and reduce transportation costs for citizens.
The meeting, convened in response to recent global developments affecting crude oil prices, issued key directives to the Ministries of Finance, Energy, and Transport, along with strict instructions for government officials.
Cabinet has directed the Minister for Finance and the Minister for Energy to take immediate steps to ensure a reduction in fuel prices in the next pricing window.
This will be achieved through the temporary suspension of selected taxes and margins on petroleum products. The specific measures to be suspended are expected to be announced at the next pricing adjustment period.
The intervention is intended to provide short-term relief to consumers amid ongoing volatility in global oil markets. The suspension will remain in effect for four weeks and will be reviewed based on developments in the Middle East and fluctuations in global crude oil prices.
The government stressed that the measure is a temporary step to stabilise domestic fuel prices and cushion households and businesses against external shocks.
A review mechanism has been put in place to assess the effectiveness of the policy and determine whether it should be extended, modified, or withdrawn.
In addition, Cabinet has directed steps to improve public transportation and reduce commuting costs.
The Minister of Transport has been instructed to expedite the deployment of 100 newly acquired Metro Mass Transit buses, which will operate on high-demand routes.
Fares on these buses are to remain lower than those of private transport operators, providing an affordable alternative for commuters, especially workers and students.
Officials say the expanded fleet and controlled fares will improve accessibility, enhance reliability, and potentially increase competition within the transport sector.
Cabinet also reiterated strict compliance with earlier presidential directives cancelling fuel allocations and allowances for government officials. All ministers and senior appointees are expected to fully adhere to this policy.
The decision is part of broader efforts to reinforce fiscal discipline and ensure efficient use of public resources amid economic pressure.
Overall, the emergency Cabinet session reflects a coordinated approach to easing fuel price pressures, improving public transport, and strengthening fiscal accountability.
SOURCE: Newscenta