According to MC Cham Jr, National Campaign Manager of the Unite Party President Adama Barrow should publicly address Gambians following the latest increase in fuel prices, just as he did when prices were reduced a month ago,
In a statement, Cham argued that while the President was quick to praise his government when fuel prices fell, he has remained silent now that petrol has reportedly increased from D101 to D104 per litre and diesel from D113 to D116 per litre.
He said although the increase may appear small to government officials, it carries serious consequences for ordinary Gambians already struggling with transport fares, food prices, school costs, electricity bills and other household expenses.
“This issue is personal because many of us understand what high fuel prices do to families, workers and businesses, when diesel rises, the pain does not stop at the fuel station. It spreads through transport, markets, farms, shops and homes.”
Cham described diesel as being at the heart of the Gambian economy, noting that it powers commercial vehicles, buses, trucks, fishing boats, farming machinery, construction equipment and generators relied upon by many businesses because of unreliable electricity.
He argued that higher diesel prices place additional pressure on transport operators, traders, farmers, fishermen and small businesses, with the impact eventually reaching consumers through increased transport costs and higher prices for rice, cooking oil, vegetables, fish, meat and other basic commodities.
“Leadership is not only about claiming credit when the news is convenient. It is also about taking responsibility when citizens are suffering,” he said.
Cham maintained that if President Barrow could address Gambians to celebrate a reduction in fuel prices, he should also explain why prices have increased again, what measures government is taking and whether there is a plan to shield citizens from further hardship.
He further criticised what he described as government’s handling of public communication, saying officials celebrate price reductions but remain silent when costs rise.
“The cost of living crisis requires more than announcements designed for political credit,” Cham said. “It requires a government with a serious plan, the discipline to cut wasteful spending, the commitment to fix electricity, the vision to support local production and the courage to protect ordinary citizens from rising hardship.”
Cham concluded that Gambians deserve leadership that speaks honestly during difficult times, accepts responsibility and takes meaningful action to ease the burden on ordinary families.
