PTI Accuses Government of Denying Public Fuel Price Relief Despite Global Oil Price Decline

Islamabad: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has criticized the federal government for not reducing petrol and diesel prices despite a significant decline in international crude oil prices, alleging that the decision reflects economic mismanagement and favors powerful business interests over consumers.

In a statement, PTI said the government’s decision to keep petroleum prices unchanged, despite lower global oil prices, demonstrates what it described as anti-public economic policies and an inability to resist pressure from influential stakeholders, including oil marketing companies, oil tanker operators, and major fuel dealers.

The party claimed that instead of passing on the benefits of lower international oil prices to the public, the government had chosen to protect the financial interests of specific business groups. It argued that the move reinforced the perception that the government’s economic priorities are centered on influential lobbies rather than public welfare.

PTI further stated that while the government regularly asks citizens to bear the burden of higher taxes and utility costs, it fails to provide meaningful relief when global market conditions become favorable. According to the party, this approach undermines public confidence in the government’s economic policies.

The opposition party demanded that the government immediately transfer the full benefit of lower global crude oil prices to consumers by reducing petrol and diesel prices. It also called on the government to explain where the financial gains from lower international oil prices are being directed and why consumers have not benefited.

PTI also criticized the government’s handling of the liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) market, alleging that authorities have failed to ensure LPG is sold at officially notified prices. The party claimed that consumers across the country are paying significantly more than the prescribed rates while regulatory authorities have failed to take effective action against profiteering.

According to PTI, the government has a constitutional and legal responsibility to ensure LPG is available at official prices and to act against those involved in overcharging. The party alleged that the current situation creates the impression that the government is protecting the interests of the LPG industry instead of consumers.

Concluding its statement, PTI said the public is seeking tangible economic relief rather than policy announcements and maintained that ordinary citizens would remember what it described as the government’s failure to pass on the benefits of lower global oil prices.