The Diaspora Force Party has expressed concern over statements by government representatives suggesting that electricity tariff increases are inevitable, while further increases in natural gas tariffs have also not been ruled out. In a statement, the party warned that additional price hikes could leave a large portion of the population unable to afford their bills or forced to live without electricity and heating, TRIBUNA reports.

“The authorities have assumed the role of passive observers, merely acknowledging that tariffs will rise without taking any action to prevent further increases. Prime Minister Vasile Tofan recently admitted that Energocom and the Government had not made sufficient efforts to secure long-term natural gas supply contracts, which could have helped avoid a significant increase in tariffs. However, this acknowledgment was not followed by any resignations or other measures to change the situation.

“Once again, officials are stating that natural gas and electricity tariffs may increase, yet they are saying nothing about the steps needed to mitigate the negative impact on citizens.

“We are also concerned that further increases in natural gas and electricity tariffs will have a severe impact on the national economy. Businesses will face higher production costs, which will be reflected in the final prices of goods and products, making many companies less competitive.

“As a result, we believe that the population’s purchasing power will decline, inflation will rise, and poverty will deepen,” the party stated.

The Diaspora Force Party is urging the authorities to face reality, recognize the devastating consequences of further electricity and natural gas tariff increases, and take the necessary measures to protect citizens and the national economy.

“If these measures are not taken, the socioeconomic consequences will be devastating,” the party warned.