By: Isatou Sarr
The Patriotic Alliance for System Transformation, Emancipation through Functionalism (PASTEF – The Gambia) has expressed strong opposition to the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA)’s recent decision to enforce minimum pricing policy on mobile data services nationwide.
In a statement signed by the party’s Public Relations and Communications Officer, Mr. Sidibeh, on Tuesday 19th August 2025, PASTEF described the move as economically damaging and a setback for affordable internet access, particularly in a country where digital inclusion remains a key developmental challenge.
“Rather than protecting the public, PURA’s policy serves to entrench the interests of telecommunications companies, prioritizing profit over people,” the statement noted.
PASTEF criticized PURA for acting unilaterally, arguing that the decision neglects consumer protection, suppresses market fairness, and further marginalizes ordinary Gambians by adding to the already high cost of connectivity. The pressure group emphasized that affordable digital access was critical for education, economic opportunities, and civic participation, warning that the new pricing policy risks widening the country’s digital divide.
The statement further called on the Gambia Competition and Consumer Protection Commission to intervene and ensure consumer rights are protected. PASTEF urged PURA to suspend the decision immediately and initiate a consultative process involving consumers, civil society, and industry experts to develop a fair pricing framework.
“This government must understand that connectivity is no longer a luxury it is a lifeline. Policies that inflate digital costs only worsen the burden on ordinary people,” the statement added.
PASTEF reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Gambians in opposing the policy, urging citizens and advocacy groups to demand affordable internet access for all.
“Gambians cannot and should not be priced out of the digital world,” the statement concluded.
