Karachi, Pakistan – Sports Desk: Former Pakistan cricket captain Shahid Afridi has strongly criticized the recent increase in fuel prices, stating that the hike is unjustifiable and places a heavy burden on the public.
His remarks come after a video circulated widely on social media showing Afridi urging citizens to support a government austerity campaign, prompting backlash from users who accused him of endorsing the price increase.
In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), Afridi clarified that the video being shared was recorded before the latest fuel price hike and was intended solely to promote energy conservation and reduced consumption. He said the video was produced at the request of Attaullah Tarar.
Afridi alleged that “malicious elements” were resharing the old clip to create a misleading impression that he supports the recent increase in petroleum prices.
“The reality is that the latest price hike will break the back of already struggling citizens and cannot be defended,” he said, emphasizing the economic strain faced by ordinary people amid rising inflation.
He further criticized attempts to use his message for political purposes, calling such actions “misleading and irresponsible.”
The controversy highlights growing public frustration in Pakistan over rising fuel costs and the broader impact of inflation on daily life.
