The Accra Mayor Michael Kpokpo Allotey says traders affected by the redevelopment of the Market were directly involved in discussions and planning for the project.
Speaking to Isaac Addae on Morning Starr on Starr FM, Michael Apokpo Allotey said the traders were part of a committee and participated in several engagements on how the redevelopment would be carried out.
He said the traders were involved in discussions on the project and were not simply informed after decisions had already been taken.
“We sat down with them to plan. They planned how the map was supposed to go. They are part of our committee.”
Mr Allotey said the engagements were held on several occasions, including a meeting with the traders at the Ministry of Transport.
“I even met them at the Ministry of Transport. You know our Transport Minister is coming from their hometown. So we have met them,” he said.
The Accra Mayor also disclosed that alternative arrangements had been made for traders who would be affected by the redevelopment, including provisions at Ablekuma South.
He urged the traders to disregard what he described as false information about the project and continue engaging with the authorities.
“We are not opposing anything on the people, we have engaged them and let’s try and change where they sell,” he said.
Mr Allotey maintained that the redevelopment is not limited to the construction of a market but is expected to transform the surrounding area through the provision of additional facilities.
According to him, the project will include a hospital, police station, fire station, nursery and residential accommodation.
“The government remains committed to the plans discussed with the traders and will continue with the redevelopment based on the arrangements agreed upon from the outset”. He said.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh/Pamela Quayson
