Why Gambians Are Questioning the Recent Data Price Increases

The so-called Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) is a den of thieves, led by a corrupt director who was BANNED FROM PUBLIC OFFICE for embezzlement and abuse of power! Yet, in a blatant act of defiance against justice, President Adama Barrow’s regime illegally reinstated this criminal to oversee a massive data price hike that steals from every Gambian. This is not regulation—it is daylight robbery sanctioned by the government!

The Corrupt Appointment

The director of PURA was previously banned from holding public office due to gross corruption and financial misconduct. However, Barrow’s administration, which promised to end the kleptocracy of the Jammeh era, has instead perfected it. Under Barrow, corruption has worsened, with the Gambia scoring a dismal 37 out of 100 on Transparency International’s Corruption Perceptions Index—a mere illusion of progress since 2016’s score of 26. The reappointment of a tainted official to lead PURA exemplifies the regime’s contempt for accountability and its commitment to looting the nation.

PURA’s Betrayal of the Gambian People

PURA’s mandate is to protect consumers, but under this corrupt director, it has become a shield for telecom giants like Africell and QCell. The decision to impose a D50 per GB price floor is a blatant scam to enrich these companies and their government allies. While Gambians struggle to afford food and electricity, Barrow’s cronies are fattening their bank accounts with kickbacks. This price hike—a 243% increase from promotional rates—is a direct assault on low-income households, students, and entrepreneurs who rely on affordable internet for education and livelihoods.

A History of Corruption

This is not an isolated incident. Barrow’s regime is drowning in scandals:

• COVID-19 funds stolen while citizens died without medicine.
• Gambia Ports Authority embezzlement schemes.
• 70 children killed by toxic cough syrup in 2022, yet the Health Ministry faces no consequences.
• Russian oil kickbacks lining the pockets of ministers.

PURA’s corruption is a microcosm of this kleptocratic system. The director’s reinstatement proves that Barrow’s government is not just incompetent—it is criminal.

Call to Action

Gambians must demand:

1. Immediate dismissal of PURA’s corrupt director.
2. Investigation into PURA’s dealings with telecom companies.
3. Reversal of the D50 price floor and implementation of a price ceiling.
4. Justice for all corruption scandals under Barrow’s watch.

THE REVOLUTION STARTS NOW! RISE UP, GAMBIA!