The United Democratic Party (UDP) has voiced strong concern over the recent sharp rise in fuel prices at pumps across The Gambia, warning that the increase is placing an unbearable burden on ordinary citizens already struggling with a high cost of living.
In a statement issued by its Media and Communication Team, the opposition party acknowledged global factors influencing fuel costs. Still, it accused the government of being unprepared and of lacking responsiveness to policy. “This increase comes at a time when Gambians are already grappling with a high cost of living, placing an additional and avoidable burden on households, small businesses, and key sectors of the economy,” the UDP said.
The party emphasized that fuel prices are not merely figures at the pump but have far-reaching consequences. They directly drive up the costs of transportation, food production, electricity generation, and essential goods and services, triggering a ripple effect that erodes the purchasing power of ordinary Gambians. Many families, the statement noted, are now forced to make painful choices between necessities.
The UDP described fuel affordability and availability as critical to national economic stability and social welfare. It urged the current administration to adopt a more strategic, forward-looking approach focused on resilience, sustainability, and protection of vulnerable populations.
Outlining its own vision, the UDP pledged that a UDP government would introduce a comprehensive National Fuel Security Plan to shield essential sectors—including agriculture, transportation, logistics, production, and national defense—from global supply shocks.
Key components of the proposed plan include the establishment of a National Strategic Fuel Reserve through the construction of a national fuel depot to ensure a consistent supply during periods of global shortages or disruptions; Strengthening the Gambia National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC) by providing targeted financial support to enable direct importation of petroleum products. This would involve forging strategic partnerships with oil-producing countries to secure stable, favorable supply agreements and developing robust contingency frameworks to monitor, safeguard, and prioritize fuel distribution to critical sectors, thereby protecting economic activity and national security during crises.
The UDP reaffirmed its solidarity with Gambians during these challenging times and called on the government to act with urgency and responsibility. “With prudent planning, transparency, and strategic investment, it is possible to cushion citizens from the harsh impacts of global fuel price volatility,” the party stated.
The statement comes amid ongoing public anxiety over rising living costs, as fuel price hikes continue to influence market prices nationwide.
