The United Democratic Party (UDP) has fiercely criticized the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) for its recent decision to set a minimum price for mobile data services in The Gambia, labeling it as “reckless,” “unlawful,” and a direct attack on consumer rights. In a strongly worded statement, the opposition party accused PURA of prioritizing corporate interests over the welfare of Gambian citizens, who are already grappling with high internet costs and economic challenges.
The UDP, through its Administrative Secretary for Media and Communication, Tombong Saidy, condemned PURA’s move as “institutionalized price gouging” that undermines the principles of a free market and exacerbates the financial burdens on Gambians. The Gambia ranks among the countries with the highest internet costs in the sub-region, and the UDP argues that PURA’s decision to fix floor prices for mobile data services will further restrict access to affordable internet, stifling economic justice and fair competition.
“PURA’s mandate is to protect consumers and ensure fair competition, not to act as a shield for GSM companies exploiting the Gambian people,” Saidy declared. He described the price-fixing policy as a betrayal of PURA’s responsibility to serve the public interest, accusing the regulator of aligning with corporate profiteers at the expense of ordinary citizens. The UDP emphasized that such actions are not only unjust but also illegal, as they disadvantage consumers and restrict market fairness.
The opposition party also criticized the administration of President Adama Barrow, accusing it of endorsing policies that deepen the economic struggles of Gambians. With rising food prices and a high cost of living, the UDP argues that PURA’s decision adds unnecessary hardship to an already burdened population. “In a democracy, regulators must safeguard citizens’ welfare, not sanction policies that cause pain and suffering,” Saidy stated.
The UDP has called for PURA to immediately reverse its decision and engage in consultations with consumer protection groups, civil society, and the public to develop policies that make mobile data more affordable. The party also questioned the silence of The Gambia Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, urging it to address what it described as a clear violation of consumer rights and market fairness.
“We stand with the Gambian people in rejecting this exploitative move,” Saidy said, vowing that the UDP will continue to hold PURA and the Barrow government accountable for actions that undermine citizens’ rights and dignity. The party’s statement concluded with a rallying cry: “Enough is enough. Gambians deserve affordable internet, not exploitation.”
The controversy has sparked widespread debate, with many Gambians expressing frustration over the high cost of internet services. As the UDP amplifies its call for accountability, all eyes are on PURA and the government to see how they will respond to the growing outcry over the contentious price-fixing policy.
