Petty traders at the Kasoa Old Market have strongly criticized the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), Hon. Seth Sabah Serwornoo Banini, and the Member of Parliament (MP), Hon. Phillis Naa Koryo Okunor, following the demolition of parts of the market. The traders described the exercise as inhumane and insensitive.
The aggrieved traders, whose stalls and goods were destroyed during the operation, told Nana Ansah that they were angry and frustrated over what they say was a lack of proper notice and consultation before the demolition.
The traders accused the authorities of disregarding their livelihoods and highlighted the hardship the exercise has imposed on them. Many said they have lost their only source of income and are now uncertain about how to provide for their families.
“We voted for them to improve our lives, not to take away our businesses. They will reap what they sow,” the traders lamented.
The demolition, which reportedly took place under heavy security, is part of a redevelopment plan by the Awutu Senya East Municipal Assembly to modernize the market. However, traders argue that the exercise was rushed and poorly communicated.
Although an alternative trading space has been allocated to them at Kasoa Iron City, the traders claim the space is too small to accommodate over 300 vendors.
Meanwhile, the Physical Planning Officer for the Assembly, Stephen Kakraba, stated that the traders were given ample time to prepare before the exercise was carried out. He added that the new market would be completed in due time and handed over to the traders.
Source: Nana Ansah Matthew Oyerepa, Central Regional Correspondent
