The Barrow administration is facing criticism over its decision to sell donated rice to the public.

The Japanese government recently donated 115,956 bags of rice to help support The Gambia government’s National Development Plan.

State House said in a statement late Monday: “The Office of the President in consultation with the Ministries of Agriculture and Finance and Economic Affairs has decided to conduct the sale of the rice at the ports. 

“No single buyer will be allowed to purchase more than five thousand (5,000) bags. The price for a 30 kilograms bag of rice is pegged at four hundred and fifty Dalasis (D450) only.”

According to State House, the price to the consumers should not be more than five hundred and fifty Dalasis (D550) per bag.”

But the announcement attracted a storm of criticism by hundreds of people on social media.

Basiru Turay wrote: “So a ‘donated rice’ should be for sale, right? It wasn’t so during Sir Dawda’s time. It used to be given out to every household gratis. But what is this government doing, politicising it.”

Ebrima Sillah wrote: “Is given to the Gambian citizens through the government for free. Why selling it to poor people Gambians. Politicians survive at the detriment of their own people who sacrificed personal interest just to see them in power. Is so sad Gambia.”

Yoro S Bah also wrote: “How can a donated rice to Gambians be sold to the same Gambians who are beneficiaries Why a special account at the CBG？In olden days rice and all other condiments donated to the Gambia was distributed free of charge to citizens.”

Kaw Baldeh said “if the rice is donated. Then why are you selling it to the people it’s donated to?

Malang Manneh wrote: “Gambia donated rice for sale…What’s wrong with Adama Barrow…”

Modou Camara wrote: “I think is better for the government to give out the rice for free in the country side.”

Reporting by Adama Makasuba