'Parliament's decision on electricity will be followed'

Parliament’s decision on electricity prices will be followed, Minister for Electric Power Khin Maung Soe said during a meeting with industrialists.

On Friday, Myanmar’s parliament approved discussions on an urgent motion to reduce the electricity fees that the government has recently increased. Some MPs also argued against the hikes in electricity prices in parliament.

Public protests against electricity fee hikes continued for the third day in Yangon on Friday evening.

A total of nearly 300 people participated in a candlelight march, which started with about 100 protestors in front of the Aung San Stadium around 6pm on Friday. They walked up to Tamwe Township through Mingalar Taung Nyunt Township, holding lit candles and placards.

“We will not stop our protests. We welcome that Parliament has submitted a proposal to reduce electricity prices, but there must be quick implementation. The public cannot endure more suffering,” said a protestor Naung Naung.

“We are always listening to the public voice. Parliament has asked us to review the increase in electricity fees. So, I will talk about it in detail in the parliament. If the industrial zones face difficulties, we will consider postponement,” said Minister Khin Maung Soe.

“We are ready to follow the decision of the parliament. If the house says increase to a level, we will increase up to that level,” the minister said. He added that he wants the public to enjoy 24-hour electricity supply, but it requires having enough money.

The businessmen insisted that the minister postpone the electricity price hike. They also requested increasing the electricity fees for industrial use only up to Ks100 (US$0.1) per unit regardless of the number of units consumed.

“It works if the increase in electricity prices can be postponed for a period,” said Myat Thin Aung, chairperson of Hlaing Thar Yar Industrial Zone.

“I don’t have the authority to decide it. This is because there is the government [who will decide]. If the government decides to do it, we will do it. Nevertheless, when more hydropower projects become operational, the prices of electricity will be reduced. Then, we will consider step by step, also for the industrial zones. What I want to say in conclusion is that the Ministry of Electric Power will have to act on the decision of parliament,” the minister answered.

According to the announcement of the Ministry of Electric Power on October 29, households using more than 100 units will be charged Ks50 (US$0.05) per unit starting from November 1 although those who use less have to pay the usual rate of Ks35.