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Diesel scandal: DA calls for review

After it came out that 70 out of 1000 gas stations were caught mixing diesel with paraffin, the DA called on the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) to check all gas stations across the country. The South African Petroleum Industry Association says there are about 4,600 gas stations in the country.

It wouldn’t be smart for the DMRE to assume the 3,600 gas stations not part of their testing are following the rules on fuel quality.

Since this scandal is nationwide, and using the current survey as a starting point, it’s likely that about 322 more gas stations might be involved.

The DA already asked for the names of the 70 stations in trouble, but it’s crucial to check more stations to make sure none were missed. Checking all gas stations is the only way to rebuild trust and reassure drivers about the quality of fuel.

The DMRE saying they can’t release the names is weak and misunderstands the POPI Act. These businesses lost their privacy rights when they messed with their diesel, putting drivers’ lives at risk. People need to know which stations to avoid. Plus, POPI only covers personal info, not businesses selling bad fuel.

The 2006 Petroleum Products Specifications and Standards exist to protect the quality of fuel sold to the public. Those breaking these rules should face the consequences of breaking the trust.

by Kevin Mileham MP

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