Demolishing Markets to Establish 24-Hour Markets: “NDC Should Pray to Win 2028 Elections, Else Some DCEs Are Preparing to Be Candidates of Nsawam” – Former Akontombra DCE

Demolishing Markets to Establish 24-Hour Markets: “NDC Should Pray to Win 2028 Elections, Else Some DCEs Are Preparing to Be Candidates of Nsawam” – Former Akontombra DCE

The former District Chief Executive (DCE) for Akontombra, Hon. Nagrat, has raised concerns over the demolition of existing market structures as part of efforts to establish new markets under the government’s 24-hour economy policy.

Speaking in an interview with Kaakyire Kwame Asare on Okyeame Radio’s Adekyee Mu Nsem morning programme, the former DCE questioned the approach being adopted in some communities, particularly where existing market facilities are being demolished to make way for new projects.

According to Hon. Nagrat, the demolition of existing market structures could have political consequences for the government, particularly if affected traders and residents feel that their livelihoods and investments have not been adequately considered.

He consequently made a strong political remark, stating that “the NDC should pray to win the 2028 elections, else some DCEs are preparing to be candidates of Nsawam.”

The statement, according to the former DCE, was made in the context of growing concerns surrounding the implementation of market redevelopment projects under the 24-hour economy initiative.

Claims existing market was demolished at Sefwi Nsawora

Hon. Nagrat cited Sefwi Nsawora as an example, claiming that a market project initiated during his tenure under the previous NPP administration had been demolished to pave the way for a new market development.

He said the market, which had been roofed and painted, comprised 72 market stalls, two stores and a mechanised borehole.

He questioned why an existing facility that had already received investment would be pulled down rather than being incorporated into or upgraded as part of the new development.

The former DCE also claimed that similar demolition exercises had taken place in Juaboso and Aowin in the Western North Region.

Concerns over traders and existing investments

The development of modern markets forms part of broader efforts to improve trading infrastructure and support economic activities under the government’s 24-hour economy agenda.

However, the demolition of existing structures has generated debate in some communities, particularly over the relocation of traders, protection of existing investments and the arrangements put in place before demolition exercises begin.

Hon. Nagrat argued that while modern markets are necessary for development, authorities must also consider the people who depend on existing market facilities for their livelihoods.

He called for proper consultation with traders and communities before existing structures are demolished and urged authorities to ensure that affected persons are given appropriate alternatives where necessary.

Political implications

The former Akontombra DCE’s comments have added a political dimension to the ongoing debate over the implementation of the 24-hour economy market projects.

His suggestion that some DCEs could potentially face political consequences if the NDC loses the 2028 elections reflects concerns about how local government officials may be perceived by constituents during the implementation of controversial development projects.

The comments are likely to fuel further discussion about the balance between infrastructure development, protection of livelihoods and political accountability as the government continues with its 24-hour economy agenda.

The concerns raised by Hon. Nagrat, however, represent his views on the matter, and authorities responsible for the projects may provide further clarification on the rationale for the demolitions, the status of affected traders and the redevelopment plans for the various communities.

Source:Bibianinews.com/Akuapemhann Kwame Omono Asamoah