Negotiations between petroleum dealers and the government have failed, with dealers confirming they will proceed with an indefinite nationwide strike from Saturday, August 15 at 6am.
What Happened
The talks between Pakistan Petroleum Dealers Association (PPDA) Chairman Malik Khuda Bakhsh’s delegation and Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervez Malik lasted five hours but ended without resolution. Sources described the atmosphere as tense during the overnight negotiations.
Government’s Position
Federal Minister Ali Pervez Malik expressed displeasure over the 72-hour ultimatum issued by petroleum dealers . The government refused to change the daily price adjustment mechanism for petroleum products, according to PPDA officials.
The government did assure dealers of a possible Rs1.34 increase in dealer commission, but this was made conditional on cabinet approval.
Dealers’ Response
The PPDA delegation decided to immediately return to Karachi and call an emergency executive committee meeting following the minister’s attitude during negotiations. Dealers confirmed they remain firm on their decision to strike.
The Delegation
The PPDA delegation included Chairman Malik Khuda Bakhsh, Vice Chairman Tariq Hassan, Vice Chairman Anwar Kamal, Sindh President Amir Khan, Punjab Vice Chairman Raja Waseem, Chaudhry Bahar, Khawaja Kashif Elahi and KP’s Abdul Majid Khan .
What’s Next
The strike is set to begin on Saturday, August 15 at 6am. The strike will continue indefinitely until dealers’ demands are met . The PPDA executive committee will meet in Karachi to finalize the strike strategy.
Conclusion
The failure of negotiations between petroleum dealers and the government has confirmed the impending nationwide strike. With dealers rejecting the government’s conditional offer and the government refusing key demands, a fuel crisis looms across Pakistan starting Saturday.
