Consumer organizations slam government over price increases

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The Confederation of Consumer Organizations (TÖK) has demanded the government withdraw the price increases implemented at the start of the year.

Combined with the recent price increases in basic consumer goods, hikes in energy and fuel prices, bridge tolls and taxes create an "unbearable burden" for consumers, said TÖK Chair Fuat Engin.

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The official annual inflation rate of 36.08 percent "does not match the realities of life," he noted.

"These unprecedented ... price increases mean that the 50.4 percent increase in the minimum wage and increases in salaries of employees and retirees will go away," said Engin.

Protecting the consumers' interests is among the government's duties, he said, citing article 172 of the Constitution and Law No. 6502 on the Protection of the Consumer.

If the price increases are not withdrawn, consumers will do what is necessary in the elections, he added. (TP/VK)