Surabaya, E Java (ANTARA News) - Islamic organization Hizbut Tahrir Indonesia (HTI) opposed to the government`s plan to raise fuel oil prices which it said will add to the people`s burden, one of its members said.

The plan to raise fuel prices on the pretext of promoting the people`s living standard would instead harm the people, Fikri A. Zudiar, a member of the organization`s provincial chapter in East Java, said here on Friday.

"Therefore, HTI members across Indonesia reject the plan to raise fuel oil prices and limit the use of subsidized fuel oils," he said in a press conference.

He said HTI would hold a number of activities in major cities in the country including on-the-spot action, grand meeting and group discussion forum to protest against the planned fuel price hike.

The East Java chapter of HTI itself would stage a rally to protest against the fuel price hike and oil and gas liberalization in front of Grahadi Building, he said.

An estimated 8,000 HTI sympathizers from many parts of East Java were expected to take part in the rally, he said.

The government plans to raise the price of subsidized fuel oil by Rp1,500 to Rp6,000 a liter as of April 2012 in reaction to spiraling global crude prices. (*)

Editor: Kunto Wibisono
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