With less than a month to Holy Month of Ramadan, National Assembly members have decried the hike in the prices of basic commodities. Deputies voiced their displeasure over the development during the adjournment debate of the second sitting in the 2012 Legislative Year.

Speaking during the debate, Hon, Mam Cherno Jallow, NAM for Upper Niumi Constituency urged the business community to be sympathetic and reduce the prices of basic commodities in the month of Ramadan, adding that it is a time in which people seek the reward and blessings of the Almighty Allah. He further said they shouldn’t increase the prices of basic food items just because the demand is high.

For his part, Hon. Ousman Njie, NAM for Sami Constituency equally urged the business community to reduce the prices of commodities during the Ramadan. He advised them to also avoid hoarding and fear God in their businesses. He pointed out that Ramadan should not be seen as a month of making profit but a month to seek God’s forgiveness.