The South African government must develop sustainable long-term solutions to the country’s fuel price challenges. With the temporary fuel levy decrease introduced two months ago about to end, a desperate intervention is needed.
UASA demands that the fuel levy reduction be extended beyond May until a more sustainable long-term solution is introduced.
The Russia-Ukraine war will see fuel prices skyrocket even more. Facing R25 a litre, how much does government expect ordinary workers to pay for fuel and public and private transport?
Workers cannot keep up with the price increases any longer. The fuel price has knock-on effects that touch every South African’s life. As it becomes more expensive to transport goods, the cost of basic consumer necessities also skyrockets. The poorest of the poor are in dire straits, while the middle class is bending over backwards to make ends meet.
Consumers will have no choice but to prioritise basic needs as their remuneration can’t keep up with the cost of living. This will result in salary increase demands on employers, which may cause more job losses.
Ahead of the Quarterly Labour Force Survey to be released by Stats SA later today, UASA hopes to see positive employment numbers. Job creation is the way forward for our struggling economy and the inflation crisis.
For workers and all South Africans, UASA urges the government to extend the fuel levy reduction and find a long-term solution to the crisis.
An economy where people survive hand-to-mouth is nothing but a disaster. Consumers also have other living expenses like education and shelter for their families, saving for retirement and further studies – these are essential responsibilities that will create stability in the country in the long term.
Again, UASA encourages its members and fellow South Africans to hang on and be money-wise. Without government stepping in, we have no choice but to adopt a lifestyle within meagre means.
Statement by Abigail Moyo, spokesperson of the trade union UASA:
