There is growing anxiety among over 400 traders at the Kumasi Central Market as a private developer claims ownership of their trading area, heightening fears of eviction and jeopardizing their livelihoods.
Amid the turmoil, reports of alleged brutality by land guards and vandalism of shop roofs have left these long-standing traders unable to conduct their businesses.
“We have been here for over 40 years. This is the only source of income for our families,” laments one trader, capturing the profound impact of the unfolding crisis.
As the affected traders grapple with uncertainty, they are urgently calling upon the government and relevant authorities to intervene, contesting the legality of the private developer’s actions and seeking protection for their rights.
Adding complexity to the situation is the ongoing dispute over land ownership. Traders firmly assert that the land belongs to the Ghana Railways Authority, while the private developer claims legitimate ownership rights. The Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) has initiated an investigation to determine the true ownership of the contested land.
Expressing frustration over the lack of transparency in the process, traders reveal their ignorance of a court ruling that allegedly granted ownership to the private developer.
“We were not informed of the court ruling, and we have not been given any opportunity to challenge it,” they declared.
In their plea to the government, the traders are calling for an independent investigation into the matter and demanding accountability for the actions of the private developer.
The unfolding crisis highlights the pressing need for swift and just resolution to safeguard the rights and livelihoods of the affected traders.
SOURCE: DAILY MAIL GH, with additional files from Citi News
Email Daily Mail GH: stories@dailymailgh.com or
Whatsapp: +233(0)509928122
