Fuel Price Hike a "Cruel Blow" to the Public: Jamaat Ameer Shafiqur Rahman

Dr. Shafiqur Rahman, Ameer of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami and Leader of the Opposition in Parliament has strongly criticized the government's decision to increase fuel prices labeling it a "cruel blow" to a public already struggling with the cost of living.

In a statement posted on his verified Facebook page on Saturday, April 18, the Jamaat leader expressed deep concern over the timing of the hike. "It is very sad" he wrote. "At a time when global fuel prices are reportedly stabilizing or decreasing, Bangladesh has announced an increase under the guise of price adjustment."

He warned that the surge in fuel costs would lead to a further spike in the prices of essential goods placing an unbearable burden on common citizens.

The reaction follows an announcement by the Ministry of Power, Energy, and Mineral Resources on Saturday night.

The government set the new consumer-level prices at Tk 140 per litre for octane, Tk 135 for petrol, Tk 115 for diesel, and Tk 130 for kerosene. The new rates come into effect across the country today Sunday, April 19, 2026.