CCM demands fuel price safety net amid global oil shocks

DODOMA: THE ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) has called on the government to introduce a fuel subsidy programme to shield citizens from soaring pump prices, driven by escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.

Speaking in Dodoma yesterday, CCM Secretary for Ideology, Publicity and Training, Mr Kenan Kihongosi said the party fully recognises the pressure that rising fuel prices are placing on the cost of living and the national economy.

He urged the government to adopt a broad, strategic plan that provides immediate relief while strengthening long-term resilience against global oil market shocks.

“Rising fuel prices are pushing up transport costs, production expenses and the prices of food and daily essentials. This is a direct burden on low- and middle-income households, and CCM is taking this matter seriously,” he said.

Mr Kihongosi announced that the party has proposed establishing a Fuel Price Stabilisation Fund, now in its final stages.

The fund would cushion consumers during periods of extreme volatility, similar to the intervention in 2022 during the Russia– Ukraine crisis, when over 100bn/- were allocated to stabilise pump prices.

CCM also highlighted the government’s ongoing construction of major fuel storage facilities, including a new Petroleum Hub launched by President Samia Suluhu Hassan.

The hub is expected to secure fuel at competitive prices and ensure uninterrupted supply during global disruptions.

He added that regulations for a National Strategic Petroleum Reserve are being finalised.

Once operational, the reserve will safeguard national fuel security and protect consumers from sharp price fluctuations.

The party further proposed routing all fuel through a Single Receiving Terminal (SRT) at TIPER to eliminate costly offloading delays and reduce demurrage charges that affect pump prices.

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Mr Kihongosi noted that the Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation (TPDC) has also been strengthened to import fuel directly from producers, bypassing middlemen and securing better prices.

To reduce long-term dependence on petroleum, CCM urged investment in modern public transport, electric vehicle charging infrastructure and the expansion of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) stations nationwide.

“Government vehicles and public transport fleets should begin transitioning to CNG systems to cut costs and reduce reliance on imported petroleum,” he said.

Mr Kihongosi reassured that the government is already working to ensure stable fuel supply nationwide and that, despite global challenges, Tanzania remains on a firm path.

“CCM believes that under the strong leadership of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, and through sound policies and national unity, the country will overcome this period and emerge with a stronger, more resilient economy,” he said, adding that the party will continue monitoring government measures to ensure citizens’ welfare and the national interests are prioritised.