By: Fatou Krubally
The United Democratic Party (UDP) has launched a scathing criticism against the Barrow administration, accusing it of economic mismanagement and betrayal of Gambian farmers amid mounting delays in groundnut payments.
In a statement issued by the party’s media team, the UDP blamed the government’s handling of the 2024–2025 groundnut marketing season for widespread hardship among farmers. The party described the situation as a “crisis,” citing late payments, price stagnation, and restricted market access as core issues.
At the heart of the controversy, is the National Food Security Processing and Marketing Corporation (NFSPMC) which the government appointed as the sole buyer of groundnuts. The UDP argues that this monopoly system undermines competition and violates farmers’ right to sell their produce to the highest bidder.
“The Barrow government is the only government that robs its own farmers in broad daylight,” the party stated. It accused the administration of maintaining last year’s prices despite rising living costs, effectively short-changing rural producers.
The UDP also condemned what it described as a double standard-highlighting salary increases for civil servants and government officials while farmers were still waiting for payment. “Tobaski is near, the rains are coming, and many farmers have not received a single dalasi,” the statement said.
Among its key demands, the UDP calls for immediate payment of all dues, liberalization of the market to allow private buyers, and a pricing structure that reflects economic realities.
“The time for patience is over,” the party warned. “If [the government] cannot manage the groundnut sector, they have no right to control it while farmers suffer.”
The statement concluded with a call for nationwide solidarity with farmers, stating that the UDP “will not stay silent” as the backbone of the country’s economy is left in distress.
