Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) central spokesperson and MNA Shazia Marri on Monday strongly criticized the federal government’s recent increase in petrol and high speed diesel (HSD) prices calling the move unjust and poorly timed ahead of Ramadan.

The government raised petrol prices by Rs5 per litre and HSD by Rs7.32 per litre bringing the new ex depot prices to Rs258.17 for petrol and Rs275.70 for HSD. Officials stated that the adjustments were driven by fluctuations in international oil markets and would remain effective until the end of February.

Marri argued that the increase would further burden citizens already grappling with high inflation. She said the decision would disproportionately impact low income families labourers, and the middle class. According to Marri rising fuel costs are likely to trigger broader price hikes in essential goods particularly food and transportation.

She also criticized the government’s economic strategy saying that announcing relief measures while increasing fuel prices sends contradictory signals. Marri urged authorities to immediately reconsider and reverse the decision.

Supporting the criticism Sindh Senior Minister Sharjeel Memon warned that higher fuel prices would intensify inflationary pressures. The hike has sparked public concern over rising living costs during the holy month.