Department Clarifies “Working From Home” Comments On Rising Fuel Costs
The Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources has moved to clarify recent media reports on comments suggesting that working from home could help South Africans cope with rising fuel prices.
The remarks were attributed to Director of the Fuel Pricing Mechanism, during a workshop on fuel pricing mechanisms.
Context Behind The “Work From Home” Remarks
According to the department, the comments were made in response to a question from attendees and were not intended to reflect official government policy.
“The department categorically states that these remarks were made in response to a question from the floor during a workshop on fuel pricing mechanisms.
“In that context, working from home was mentioned purely as an example of one of several possible options that individuals or organisations might consider to mitigate rising transport-related costs,” the department said in a statement.
The department stressed that the comment was part of a broader discussion and should not be interpreted as a formal recommendation or directive.
“It is therefore incorrect to report or interpret the response given during the workshop as an official position or policy proposal of the department or government.”
No Official Policy On Remote Work
The department further clarified that the suggestion of working from home was not presented as a policy intervention, but rather as one of many possible ways individuals could manage increasing living costs.
“Government continues to engage on matters relating to fuel supply, fuel pricing and the broader cost-of-living pressures affecting South Africans. Any policy positions or decisions will be communicated through the appropriate official channels,” the department said.
Minister Mantashe Calls For Calm
Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources Gwede Mantashe has called on South Africans not to panic as the South African fuel supply remains stable. He was answering questions in Parliament.
Fuel supply security has come under scrutiny following heightened tensions in Iran which led to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz – causing a disruption in the flow of global oil and liquified natural gas supplies.
“Despite the heightened geopolitical risk, including disruptions in the Middle East shipping routes, the Republic’s current petroleum supply security arrangement remains robust. The latest monitoring report confirms the overall supply is stable across petroleum products, with imports arriving as planned through the mid-April 2026.
“Inland supply is supported by stable refining. Sasol, SAPREF [South African Petroleum Refineries] and the coal to liquid refinery in Secunda is ensuring that there is a reliable supply of energy.
“The reason why we are confident is that our department meets the petroleum producers - all of them - twice a week to monitor the situation. So, when we articulate a position, it’s not only for the state-owned entities, but we are also talking for everybody,” Mantashe said.
Government Focus Remains On Fuel Prices And Cost Of Living
The statement reassures the public that any official changes related to fuel pricing, transport costs, or workplace policies will be formally announced through verified government platforms.
This clarification comes amid ongoing concerns about the cost of living in South Africa, with fuel prices remaining a key issue affecting households and businesses alike.
Additional reporting by SANews.gov
