Concerns Over Rising Fuel Prices
The National Front for the Rescue of the Moroccan Oil Refinery "La Samir" has renewed its calls for the revival of oil refining operations at the refinery, emphasizing the urgent need to protect consumers from the repercussions of soaring fuel prices. This concern comes in light of the escalating tensions between the United States, Israel, and Iran, which pose significant risks to global economies and the supply of oil and gas resources.
In an official statement, the executive office of the front expressed deep worries about the precarious situation in the Middle East, warning that it could trigger a new wave of inflation potentially surpassing the economic impact of the Russia-Ukraine war in 2022 and the fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic.
The organization highlighted the detrimental effects of ongoing conflicts on the national economy and the security of energy supplies, as well as the rising fuel prices that threaten the purchasing power of citizens. They predict that the price of diesel could reach 15 dirhams per liter in the near future.
Call for Energy Sovereignty and Policy Review
The front lamented the persistent neglect from successive governments regarding their appeals to enhance Morocco's energy sovereignty and shield citizens from sharp increases in fuel prices, which severely undermine their purchasing power. They reiterated their call for all relevant state parties to increase vigilance and mobilize concrete, well-studied measures to address the developments in the conflict.
Furthermore, they urged a comprehensive review of Morocco's energy policy through a national forum aimed at discussing the energy challenges facing the country and identifying mechanisms to strengthen energy sovereignty in this era of uncertainty and growing conflicts over energy sources. The front advocates for a revival of refining and storage operations at the Mohammedia refinery, suggesting that the state could consider debt compensation or public-private partnerships to leverage the national institution's capabilities.
Additionally, they reiterated demands for the reversal of the decision to liberalize fuel prices, advocating for a regulated pricing system that ensures the interests of economic players while safeguarding consumer rights.
As reported by thevoice.ma.