Edmond Abu Presses Government Over Fuel Prices, Warns of Resumed Protests

Activist Edmond Abu has announced that the Native Consortium has tentatively suspended its activities for five days in observance and mourning of the late APC Chairman, Minkailu Mansaray, describing him as a close ally of the movement.

In a statement, Abu noted that the suspension of activities is also in recognition of consultations with stakeholders, including a top government official, who reportedly urged the group to pause planned protest actions until Monday, 28 June 2026, pending expected government action on their demands.

He explained that the Consortium expects what it describes as a “seismic reduction” in fuel prices, linking its position to global crude oil price trends, which he said have fallen to around $69 per barrel. Abu argued that local fuel prices should reflect international market changes.

He further criticised the pace of fuel price adjustments in Sierra Leone, comparing it to reductions in other countries, and accused relevant authorities of slow response to global oil market movements.

The activist also urged supporters, including social media campaigners, bloggers, and media practitioners, to remain engaged, warning that the group would resume protest actions if no meaningful changes are made after the suspension period.

Abu linked the fuel price debate to broader economic concerns, including rising cost of living, calling for reductions to pre-crisis levels, which he estimated at around Le28.5 per litre.

The statement also referenced political figures across party lines, including members of both the ruling and opposition parties, whom he described as allies of the Consortium, while criticising what he termed inadequate responses to economic pressures affecting citizens.

The Consortium said it remains committed to continuing its advocacy on fuel pricing and economic issues if government action does not meet its expectations by the end of the suspension period.