Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi has criticized the rise in petroleum prices, saying tax shortfalls should not be passed on to ordinary citizens.
Former Pakistan cricket captain Shahid Afridi has criticized the increase in petroleum product prices, describing it as a failure of governance and calling for immediate relief for inflation-hit citizens.
In a post on social media platform X, Afridi expressed concern over the country’s economic situation and questioned the government’s reliance on taxes on petroleum products to meet revenue requirements.
Afridi said the burden of the government’s failure to achieve its tax collection targets should not be shifted onto ordinary people. He argued that imposing heavy taxes on petrol ultimately takes more money out of the pockets of already struggling citizens.
The former captain also rejected the argument that the latest increase in petrol prices should simply be attributed to international circumstances. He described the hike as a reflection of government and administrative shortcomings.
Afridi calls for an end to burdening the public
Afridi said people were already facing severe financial pressure because of rising prices of essential commodities. According to his statement, the cost of living has made it increasingly difficult for ordinary families to meet basic needs.
He warned that another increase in petroleum prices would further intensify these difficulties. Higher fuel costs can also add pressure to household budgets and the wider cost of transportation and essential goods.
Afridi urged those in authority to address their policy and administrative weaknesses instead of passing the burden on to the public. He called for practical measures that could provide meaningful relief to lower-income groups.
He also urged the government to explore alternative ways of meeting its financial requirements and adopt policies focused on easing the pressure on citizens.
Pakistan has faced continued public concern over petroleum prices and the broader cost of living. The government has maintained that revenue requirements and conditions linked to international financial arrangements are among the factors affecting fiscal policy.
The impact of fuel prices extends beyond motorists, as changes in petroleum costs can affect transportation and the prices of goods and services.
Afridi’s comments have added a prominent public voice to the broader debate over the economic burden facing ordinary Pakistanis. His criticism centers on the argument that revenue collection should not disproportionately depend on measures that increase the financial pressure on consumers.
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