Event Summary
On 22 August 2025, the Gambian police arrested at least 23 protesters demonstrating against the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority’s (PURA) controversial decision to impose a price floor on mobile data. The move, which critics say protects mobile service companies at the expense of consumers, effectively ended competitive pricing that had previously lowered internet costs. Protesters argued the regulation undermines market competition and consumer welfare.
The arrested youths were brought before the Kanifing Magistrate Court, which denied them bail and ordered their remand at Mile Two Central Prison until the next hearing on 4 September.
The arrests raise concerns regarding the government’s response to public dissent, weakening citizens’ ability to hold regulators and government accountable on issues that directly affect their rights and livelihoods