State Vice President Dr. Saulos Chilima who is also leader of United Transformation Movement (UTM) has trashed the recent fuel hike by Malawi Energy Regulatory Authority (MERA) describing the hike as absurd.

On Thursday last week Malawians had a rude awakening following fuel prices hike by MERA, forcing minibus operators also to hike minibus fairs.

According to the new prices, Petrol is now selling at K990.30 from K932.50 per litre while diesel is now selling at K990.40 per litre from K935.60 and paraffin is now selling at K785.00 from K755.30.

Speaking during a rally in Karonga on Sunday Chilima demanded an explanation from MERA on the fuel hike.

“We know the Kwacha has gone weaker against major foreign currencies but increasing fuel prices is not the answer to solve the depreciation of Kwacha. This will pile more miserly on Malawians who are yet to recover from thievery from the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP),” said Chilima.

Chilima said it was strange to note that Malawi is the only country where fuel has gone up despite the falling of fuel prices in the rest of the world.

He warned of unspecified action the pump prices is not reduced as demanded.

Meanwhile MERA is yet to comment on the matter.