Pokuase: Tension has escalated at the Pokuase Timber Market in the Ga North Municipality as traders resist plans by the Municipal Assembly to demolish the market and relocate them. The traders say the move threatens their livelihoods and have called on the Municipal Chief Executive, Akwetey Agbo, to reconsider the decision.
According to Ghana Web, the Chairman of the market, Nana Kyeremateng, stated in an interview with Angel FM that the traders inspected the new location but found it to be bushland, with construction work still ongoing. He mentioned that they would be willing to relocate if the new site was properly prepared and suitable for their businesses. The traders claim the land they occupy is not state land and note that the available state land in the area is occupied by a high-tension installation.
They are questioning why their market is being targeted while other shops and businesses continue to operate in the area. Nana Kyeremateng expressed concern that the traders fear losing their businesses if they are moved before the new site is ready. 'We were in this place when Mahama came to the campaign to tell us about the 24-hour economy and other promises, which we believed in,' he said.
The traders, who supported President John Mahama in the 2024 election, now feel that the municipal authorities are threatening their livelihoods. Therefore, they have appealed to the MCE to engage with them instead of proceeding with the demolition. 'The MCE shouldn't let the love we have for NDC disappear,' Nana Kyeremateng emphasized.
The traders' primary demand is for proper engagement and a suitable relocation site. This dispute arises after previous efforts by the Ga North Municipal Assembly to decongest the Pokuase area.