Good News for Motorists as ANC SG Fikile Mbalula Made this Bold Promises, Check Out What He Said

African National Congress (ANC) Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula has highlighted the government’s temporary fuel price relief measures, promising South Africans lower petrol and diesel costs from Wednesday, 4 November, the day of the 2026 Local Government Elections.

Speaking ahead of the elections, Mbalula said the reduction would provide financial relief to motorists, commuters and businesses struggling with the rising cost of living.

“From the 4th of November, on the day of voting, diesel will be down by R3 a litre, petrol will be down by R1.50,” Mbalula said.

He further argued that the reduction in fuel costs would have a positive impact beyond motorists, potentially easing the cost of transporting goods and reducing pressure on household expenses.

“This means food prices will drop, low taxi fares, and train fares will be low. I heard you there saying I am lying. I’m not telling lies,” he added.

The fuel levy reduction was announced by Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana during the Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement on 21 October 2026.

Under the temporary relief programme, the general fuel levy has been reduced by R1.50 per litre for petrol and R3 per litre for diesel, effective from 4 November until 1 December 2026.

However, while lower fuel costs could help reduce transportation and distribution expenses, Mbalula’s suggestion that food, taxi and train fares would automatically become cheaper is not guaranteed. Actual price changes will depend on decisions by transport operators, retailers and other businesses.

The announcement comes at a politically significant moment, as South Africans head to the polls to elect municipal representatives who will oversee service delivery and local governance.

The ANC has presented the fuel relief as evidence of government’s efforts to cushion households against economic pressures, while the timing of the intervention has also attracted political debate.

For Mbalula, however, the message to voters is clear: the fuel levy reduction represents temporary financial relief at a time when many South Africans are struggling with the rising cost of living.

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