La Beach: It's sad that this very significant enclave has been demolished so wantonly

Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), expressed sadness over the demolition of La Beach in Ghana. He emphasized the significant social, economic, cultural, and international importance of the beach resort, which has become the most vibrant destination in the country. Dr. Bawumia highlighted its role as a livelihood source for thousands, particularly the youth, and its crucial contribution to the nation's image during the NPP government's tenure, notably during the Year of Return.

The NPP leader criticized the wanton destruction, particularly noting the careless disposal of movable assets that owners could have easily removed. He pledged his commitment to rebuild the beach economy, secure leases for businesses, and redesign the space to meet standards, ensuring the beach ecosystem thrives alongside smaller businesses. Dr. Bawumia also assured of support for the thousands of jobs the beach economy provides and assured of their improvement.

Meanwhile, the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) justified the removal of unauthorized occupants from the beachfront near Labadi Beach Hotel and La Palm Royal Beach Hotel. SSNIT claimed the action was necessary to protect their investments, stressing its fiduciary responsibility to preserve these assets' value and ensure sustainable returns for contributors and pensioners.

SSNIT identified eight major risks associated with encroachment, including safety hazards, fire and health risks, and reputational damage to Ghana's tourism industry.

The agency assured that the beaches would be cleaned and restored, remaining open to the public. The Labadi Beach Hotel and La Palm Royal Beach Hotel, SSNIT's most visible hospitality investments, would continue generating returns for over two million contributors. Despite the mixed reactions on social media, SSNIT clarified that the operation was not a beach closure but a restoration exercise.