afrol News, 14 February - Mozambican government has decided to reduce the price of diesel for private taxis, a move calculated to end rampant protests over high fuel prices and the alarming cost of living in the country.

It has pegged the price of diesel litre at US $1.30.

“The decision to reduce the price takes effect immediately”, Mozambique's Transport Minister, Antonio Munguambe, announced.

Munguambe called on Mozambicans to remain calm because the government is sensitive to their feelings and concerns.

The government's move to increase fuel prices by 14% in January was greeted with angry protests in the capital Maputo, resulting to destruction of vehicles and looting.

Besides, four people were killed while hundred others wounded as the police tried to disperse demonstrators in two Mozambican cities.

Mozambican authorities said the rising oil prices in the world market had forced them to increase local fuel prices. Many people see the reduction as a temporary measure.

The government was forced to cancel its plans to raise transport fares by 50%.

By staff writer

© afrol News

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