By Sallieu S. Kanu
Sierra Leone – April 2, 2026 — Three senior figures from the opposition All People’s Congress (APC) have sharply criticized the Government of Sierra Leone’s latest fuel price adjustment, describing it as reckless, burdensome, and a betrayal of struggling citizens.
Hon. Ben Alpha, an opposition Member of Parliament, condemned the increase in petrol prices from NLe32 to NLe35 per litre and diesel from NLe35 to NLe40 per litre, calling it “a direct slap in the face of struggling Sierra Leoneans.” He argued that while global tensions have driven up international fuel costs, governments elsewhere are cushioning citizens with relief measures, not transferring the burden.
“Instead, here in Sierra Leone, the government hides behind the word ‘subsidy’ while quietly transferring the burden to ordinary citizens,” Hon. Alpha stated, warning of ripple effects on transport, food prices, and household budgets.
Abdul Kargbo, leader of the main opposition in Parliament, pointed to deeper structural issues beyond global market pressures. He recalled that in 2008, when oil prices hit $147 per barrel, Sierra Leone sold fuel at about Le3,500 per litre under a stable exchange rate. “Today, oil prices are lower at around $100 to $110 per barrel, but fuel now sells for about Le35,000 per litre. This clearly points to exchange rate depreciation, poor fiscal management, and weak policies, rather than global prices alone,” he said.
Popular APC flagbearer aspirant Ady Macauley also denounced the hike, calling it “gratuitous wickedness.” In a social media post, he accused the government of imposing “subsidised hardship,” noting that fuel pump prices have risen by 45 percent in just three months.
The government, however, defended the adjustment, citing international market volatility and petroleum import costs. Officials explained that the full market price would have been NLe36.10 per litre for petrol and NLe44.26 per litre for diesel, but authorities opted to absorb part of the difference. For the period between April 2 and April 15, agreed pump prices are set at NLe35 for petrol and NLe40 for diesel following consultations with Oil Marketing Companies.
This marks the third fuel price adjustment in just a few months, intensifying public frustration as motorists, business owners, and low-income families brace for higher transportation and food costs.