But Najib, you do have power over fuel prices, Rafizi retorts

Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak may claim to have no power of the rise and fall in fuel prices, but PKR vice president Rafizi Ramli believes this is hogwash.

Rafizi said Najib has both direct and indirect control over the matter.

In a statement today Rafizi said Najib is the head of government, and it is the government that decides the formula to calculate the weekly price of fuel; that fuel prices be updated weekly; that sets a guaranteed profit and maintenance cost for petrol dealers companies; that RON97 be subject to the goods and services tax; and to abolish fuel subsidies.

Indirectly meanwhile, Rafizi claimed Najib is leading a corrupt government that has incurred high debt, as well as failed to protect the value of the ringgit, thus causing fuel prices to be higher.

"The move to fool the people as though he does not have the power to control fuel prices actually makes him look like a fool," Rafizi said.

Najib yesterday said he had no control over fuel prices and was baffled as to why he is attacked when prices go up due to global factors such as crude oil is more expensive.

Rafizi said instead of trying to wash his hands over the matter, the prime minister should debate it in parliament.

The Pandan MP proposes that fuel subsidies be reintroduced, with a monthly quota system in place for those who qualify.

Rafizi said the subsidised price should be at RM1.80 per litre, something he is confident that Pakatan Harapan would be able to do if it becomes the next government. - Mkini