PAC labels latest fuel price increase a ‘death sentence’ for the poor

The PAC has condemned the latest fuel price increase , saying it will deepen the cost-of-living crisis facing workers, the unemployed and poor households.

The party says rising fuel costs will push up the price of transport, food and other necessities.

From midnight, the petrol price is expected to breach the R30-per-litre mark for the first time, while diesel is already above R30 per litre.

The party is calling on the government to urgently regulate fuel prices and introduce measures to protect the poor.

PAC Western Cape Spokesperson Mfusi Zonke says, “The PAC condemns this crippling fuel price increase.

Workers, the unemployed and the rural poor are at the receiving end.

When fuel goes up, everything goes up: bread, taxi fares and paraffin, but wages remain the same.” Zonke has described the increase as a “death sentence” for those who are already struggling to make ends meet.

“For the unemployed, who already survive on nothing, this increase is a death sentence.

We demand an immediate reduction and regulation of fuel prices and subsidised public transport for workers and students,” he adds.

With only few hours left before the latest fuel price increases take effect, motorists are making their way to filling stations to top up their tanks ahead of the midnight deadline.

From midnight, petrol prices will increase by between R3.12 and R3.33 per litre, depending on the grade.

Fuel prices increase from 7 October 2026.

Petrol 93 increases by R3.12/l, Petrol 95 increases by R3.33/l.

Diesel increases by R2.84/l to R3.24/l, depending on the grade.