Minority Slams Public Assets Demolition For Markets

The Minority in Parliament has expressed strong objections to the government's introduction of the 24-Hour Economy Market programme, claiming it involves the demolition of existing public assets to create new markets. This criticism is coming from the minority members on the Local Government and Rural Development Committee, led by Francis Asenso-Boakye.

The Minority party argues that the programme's implementation appears poorly planned and out of sync with the actual development needs of various communities. They insist that the government's approach to building markets is misguided, particularly when there is no genuine economic need for new markets.

The Minority raises several examples of communities impacted by the programme, including the Asesewa Market in Upper Manya Krobo, the Mamponteng astroturf in the Kwabre East Municipality, the Nkenkaasu Market in Offinso North District, and a newly constructed school in Ahafo Ano South West District. They argue that these public facilities should not be destroyed when communities still require basic infrastructure.

In the Upper West Region, the Minority cites the reported demolition of a Magistrate Court in Nandom, while in the Western North Region's Aowin Constituency, they question the demolition of an unoccupied Enchi Market. They also cite the demolition of Tendamba Primary School in Wa, homes and shops at Poyentanga, and other facilities like a market in Agona East District, New Thursday Central Market in Wenchi, Abor Market in Keta Municipality, and commercial structures at the Kasoa New Market.

The Minority maintains that these demolitions represent a pattern of displacing existing public assets, schools, businesses, homes, and community infrastructure in the name of the 24-Hour Economy Market programme. They call for a thorough review of the programme and more stakeholder consultation to ensure its economic viability and alignment with local demand.