2024-02-13 22:14:44
Rebound in the soap opera of the surge in prices at the pump in Cameroon. While a status quo was announced a few hours ago, the government has finally revealed a 15% increase for gasoline and diesel after a closed-door meeting with consumer associations on February 2.
Finally 15% increase for gasoline and diesel
The mountains seem to have given birth to a mouse. After weeks of tension around rumors of an increase in fuel prices, the Cameroonian government made a decision following tough negotiations with consumer associations.
Verdict: the price of super will ultimately increase by 15%, to 905 FCFA per liter, while diesel will be set at 900 FCFA, also up 15%. A moderate decision compared to the 30% once mentioned, but which nonetheless remains costly for household wallets.
Gas and kerosene spared
The good news is that other commodities will ultimately escape the tariff spike. Thus, the prices of domestic gas and kerosene have been spared for the moment by the government, in order to protect the most vulnerable populations.
A clever way of partly defusing the emerging discontent, while the specter of a large-scale social movement in the run-up to the presidential election has certainly played a role in the restraint of the authorities.
Support measures still unclear
It now remains to know the ” accompanying measures » mentioned by the government to soften the shock of this increase on low-income households. Will there be a question of targeted subsidies? A reduction in fuel taxes? Temporary price stabilization mechanisms?
So many avenues which should be clarified in the coming days to avoid an outbreak of anger that is difficult to contain. Because one thing is certain: even if revised downwards, this increase risks making waves in Cameroon, in an already highly volatile social context.