Africa-Press – Sierra-Leone. The Native Consortium has issued a strong reaction following the announcement that NP and LeoneCo, two major oil marketing companies in Sierra Leone, have once again reduced the price of diesel by 24 Leones and petrol by 25 Leones. This reduction comes after allegations of price-fixing and collusion with government officials, which the Consortium claims to have exposed.
Describing the price reduction as a “big win for Sierra Leoneans,” the Native Consortium emphasized that their efforts to highlight the alleged “failed price-fixing project” have played a crucial role in forcing the oil companies to revise their pricing.
The Consortium also noted that this move validates their long-standing advocacy for fair and affordable fuel prices in the country.
In a statement, the group pointed out how their calculations and pressure have made LeoneCo and NP “further validate the Native Consortium calculus” while turning Zainab Bangura, a prominent figure in Sierra Leone, into a hero for the people. They praised the public for standing firm against what they described as corporate exploitation and urged citizens to remain vigilant, as the fight for transparency and fairness is ongoing.Call for Government Action
The Consortium did not mince words in criticizing the Ministry of Finance and the Petroleum Regulatory Agency (PRA) for their alleged role in what it described as “match-fixing votes” with the oil companies. They questioned the government’s commitment to the welfare of its citizens, urging officials to redeem themselves by pegging the price of fuel at Le 23. This, they argue, would demonstrate genuine care for the people and provide relief to struggling households and businesses.”A responsible government that cares for its people should peg the price at Le 23 now and redeem itself,” the Consortium said in a boldly worded statement.
They also called on the public to hold government officials accountable for their actions and decisions, stating, “Mr. Minister of Finance and PRA, are you still holding on to your 27-match fixing vote?”Challenge to NP and LeoneCo
The Consortium directed sharp criticism towards NP and LeoneCo, challenging them to admit that they are capable of selling fuel at Le 23, as previously suggested by Edmond Abu, a prominent activist.
They also warned the companies to stop relying on “paid-up media” to distort the narrative and mislead the public.
While acknowledging the price reduction as a positive step, the Native Consortium cautioned the public to remain watchful of what they described as the “Corporate Gangsters” led by NP and LeoneCo. They expressed concerns about the companies’ future actions and hinted at the possibility of further attempts to manipulate prices.
The Consortium vowed to continue advocating for transparency and accountability in the fuel sector, urging Sierra Leoneans to keep applying pressure on both the government and oil companies to ensure that fuel prices are fair and reflective of market realities.
This latest development in Sierra Leone’s fuel pricing saga highlights the power of public advocacy and exposes the dynamics of corporate influence and governmental oversight. As the Native Consortium celebrates a partial victory, they remind Sierra Leoneans that the fight for economic justice is far from over. The ball is now in the government’s court to take decisive action and prioritize the welfare of its citizens over corporate interests.
For More News And Analysis About Sierra-Leone Follow Africa-Press
