Labour Congress Pressures Government for Further Fuel Price Reductions

Labour Congress Pressures Government for Further Fuel Price Reductions

The Sierra Leone Labour Congress (SLLC) has formally petitioned President Julius Maada Bio, expressing dissatisfaction with recent adjustments to fuel pump prices. The union, which represents a workforce of over three million, argues that the government’s latest action is insufficient and fails to align with current global crude oil market trends.

In a letter dated June 29, 2026, addressed to the State House, the SLLC acknowledged the government's previous attempts to address concerns regarding the cost of living. However, the organization maintained that the recent fuel price reduction remains "marginal" when contrasted with the significant decline in international benchmarks, such as Brent crude.

“We therefore respectfully express our disappointment that the recent reduction in fuel pump prices, though welcomed, does not proportionately reflect the significant decline in international crude oil prices,” the letter stated.

The Labour Congress has called on President Bio to intervene by directing the National Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NPRA) and the Ministry of Trade and Industry to implement a further downward review of fuel prices. The union contends that such a move is essential to accurately reflect current landed costs, thereby providing much-needed relief to struggling households, commuters, and businesses.

The SLLC emphasized that a more significant price reduction would not only lower operational and transport costs but also serve to bolster public confidence in the government’s economic management.

While reaffirming its support for government policies intended to improve workers’ welfare, the Congress stressed the necessity of ongoing dialogue between the government and labour leaders regarding critical economic issues. 

The organization has requested a formal audience with the President to discuss these pressing concerns further.