Senior leader of PMLN and former federal minister Khawaja Saad Rafique has warned that the recent increase in petroleum prices will trigger a severe wave of inflation.
In a statement shared on social media, he said the sharp rise in petrol and diesel prices has significantly increased public hardships, making everyday life more difficult for ordinary citizens.
He acknowledged that the government may have its constraints but questioned how common people would survive under such intense economic pressure.
Rafique further stated that meeting conditions set by the International Monetary Fund is pushing the poor deeper into poverty, while the middle class risks falling below the poverty line.
The sharp increase in the price of petroleum products has led to the worst wave of inflation, government constraints are in place, but how will the common man survive ?????
While fulfilling the IMF, the poor will die and the middle class will go below the poverty line.
If the…
— Khawaja Saad Rafique (@KhSaad_Rafique) April 3, 2026
He also expressed concern over global tensions, warning that if alleged US and Israeli actions against Iran do not stop, millions in developing countries could face hunger and economic distress.
Meanwhile, the federal government recently announced the largest increase in fuel prices in the country’s history, sparking widespread public concern.
According to official figures, petrol prices were increased by 137.24 rupees per liter and diesel by 184.49 rupees, bringing the new prices to 458.41 rupees and 520.35 rupees respectively, intensifying economic challenges nationwide.