The Director General of the National Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NPRA), Baluwa Koroma, has come under intense public scrutiny following the recent increase in fuel prices across Sierra Leone. The pump price of fuel has risen sharply from Le 25 to Le 28.05, sparking widespread criticism from consumers, dealers, and civil society groups.
Critics argue that the latest increment is unjustified, especially considering recent market trends. Prior to this increase, several fuel importers and dealers had independently reduced pump prices from the NPRA-approved ceiling of Le 27 to Le 25, in an apparent effort to ease the burden on ordinary Sierra Leoneans. This voluntary reduction, they say, demonstrated goodwill and responsiveness to prevailing economic conditions.
Despite these efforts, the NPRA failed to officially revise the ceiling price downward to reflect the reduced cost being absorbed by dealers. Observers note that during this period, the country’s macroeconomic indicators showed relative stability, with the exchange rate holding steady and global fuel prices reportedly on a downward trend. Many believe this presented an opportunity for the regulator to formally reduce fuel prices in line with market realities.
Instead, critics accuse the NPRA of inaction, arguing that the authority did not prioritize consumer interests. Concerns have also been raised that the regulator only adjusted the fuel price ceiling after the government announced an increase in taxes on petroleum products and other commodities. With the new tax measures taking effect, the ceiling price was revised upward from Le 27 to Le 28.05, effectively erasing any relief previously enjoyed by consumers.
This development has left fuel dealers and importers with little choice but to align strictly with the new government approved ceiling price, citing the need to meet revenue obligations and remain operational under the revised tax regime.
The fuel price hike has further intensified public frustration amid rising living costs, with many Sierra Leoneans calling on the NPRA to be more transparent, proactive, and responsive to both global market trends and local economic realities. As pressure mounts, stakeholders are urging the regulatory authority to place the welfare of citizens at the center of its pricing decisions, rather than reacting only when fiscal measures compel adjustments.
