POLITICS & POLICY MAKING

Nawaz Sharif Demands Immediate Public Relief Following Record Petrol Price Hike

PML-N President Nawaz Sharif expressed deep concern today over the recent spike in fuel prices, directing the government to prioritize public relief for low-income families. During a meeting at Jati Umra with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Punjab CM Maryam Nawaz, the elder Sharif was briefed on the global economic pressures—including the Strait of Hormuz blockade—that forced petrol and diesel prices above Rs414 per litre. He emphasized that protecting the common man from the resulting inflationary wave must be the administration's primary focus.
2026-05-09
Nawaz Sharif Demands Immediate Public Relief Following Record Petrol Price Hike

On Saturday, May 9, 2026, PML-N President Nawaz Sharif convened a high-level meeting at Jati Umra to address the growing economic strain on the public following a significant hike in fuel prices. The meeting included Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Punjab CM Maryam Nawaz, and Deputy PM Ishaq Dar.

A Record Spike in Fuel Costs

The discussion was sparked by the federal government's latest price revision, which saw petrol climb by Rs14.92 to a new high of Rs414.78 per litre, while high-speed diesel rose by Rs15 to Rs414.58.

  • The Global Factor: Deputy PM Ishaq Dar briefed the elder Sharif on the external pressures driving these costs, specifically citing the ongoing U.S.-Iran conflict and its impact on global oil markets. This marks the fourth fuel price hike since hostilities began in February.

  • Diplomatic Context: The leadership was also briefed on Pakistan's "behind-the-scenes" diplomatic role in facilitating the U.S.-Iran peace talks currently centered in Islamabad, which are seen as the primary hope for stabilizing regional energy prices.

Demanding Public Relief

Nawaz Sharif issued a clear directive to both the federal and Punjab governments to prioritize the "common man" over fiscal targets:

  • Unified Strategy: He called for a synchronized policy between the federal government and the Punjab administration to mitigate the inflationary impact on citizens.

  • Protecting the Vulnerable: Specific emphasis was placed on creating a "safety net" for low-income groups who are most affected by the rising costs of transport and essential goods.

  • Political Focus: Beyond the economy, the leadership discussed strategy for upcoming elections in Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan, signaling that the party is aware of how inflation might influence the polls.