Market Vendors Threaten To Boycott 2026 Elections If Their Concerns Are Not Addressed

By: Binta Jaiteh

Dozens of market vendors around the Serre Kunda area have threatened to boycott the 2026 presidential elections if the government fails to address their pressing concerns in the face of biting economic hardships faced by many people.

The vendors described the current business climate as frustrating and unprofitable, with rising costs and economic pressures making survival increasingly difficult.

Speaking to this newspaper at Serrekunda Market, vendor Jamba Sawaneh urged President Adama Barrow to assist the poor, particularly women in the business sector.

“We are tired of talking for years without any reaction from the government. If President Barrow wants our votes, he should do the needful. Gone are the days when politicians promise and fail to fulfil. No more politics of interest,” she said.

Sawaneh highlighted the struggles of Gambian women, especially single parents who depend on small-scale businesses to survive. “A basket of pepper costs D5,000. How can we buy that, considering the depreciation of the dalasi against the CFA Franc, and still make a profit?” she asked.

At Latrikunda Market, vendor Fatou Ceesay echoed similar sentiments, describing the current year as the worst for business. “If the government ignores our concerns, the upcoming 2026 elections will be history. Politicians make empty promises during campaigns, but once elected, they abandon taxpayers. Issues like robbery, corruption, and violence are increasing, yet there is no response from authorities,” she complained.

Modou Njie, another businessman, called on the government and the Ministry of Trade to implement strategic measures to support market activities. “I have been in business for years, but this year has been unpredictable. I wonder when this hardship will end,” he lamented.

Sulayman Dampha, Serrekunda Market Manager, also challenged the government to assist small-scale traders, emphasizing that those who travel abroad for business face additional challenges due to the dalasis’ depreciation against the CFA Franc.

“We cannot continue voicing our concerns without seeing improvements. The government empowers financially independent businessmen while leaving the poor struggling. This only increases poverty and adds risks to the economy,” Dampha said.

The vendors’ statements highlight growing frustration over economic challenges and signal potential political consequences if their concerns are left unaddressed.

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 By: Binta Jaiteh Dozens of market vendors around the Serre Kunda area have threatened to boycott the 2026 presidential elections…
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