The Spokesperson for the Peaceful Settlers Traders Association in Ashaiman, Jeffrey Eli, has strongly criticised the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) over a planned demolition exercise affecting traders in the area.
Speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem morning show, Mr. Eli described the situation as unfortunate, accusing the MCE, Freeman Tsekpo, of attempting to evict traders from what he described as lawfully acquired land.
“It is quite unfortunate. We have an MCE who wants to sack us from our lands. He wants to move us from our lawful acquired lands and give them to a private developer while the matter is still in court,” he alleged.
According to him, the traders have operated on the land for more than 60 years and are surprised by what they describe as renewed attempts to remove them.
“We have been here for over 60 years. So anytime there is demolition in Ashaiman, we are not surprised because it always comes back to us,” he added.
Mr. Eli further accused the MCE of targeting their association whenever he visits the area.
“The moment he comes to our site, he tells us to leave. It looks like he has an agenda against us. Sometimes we feel we are being treated like squatters on our own legally acquired land,” he said.
He also claimed that although the Member of Parliament intervened in the matter, the MCE reportedly insisted on proceeding with his position.
“Even when the MP tried to intervene, the MCE said he would not listen to anyone. It looks like he is determined to erase us from the map,” he stated.
The spokesperson appealed directly to the President to intervene, saying the situation could affect many other residents if not addressed.
“We are appealing to the President to intervene because this is not just about us. Today it is us; tomorrow it could be someone’s home, business or school,” he warned.
He maintained that the traders possess valid documentation for the land, including allocation papers and building permits allegedly issued by the Tema Development Corporation (TDC) and the Assembly.
“We have documents, building plans and permits. The Assembly itself has given us approval. The only reason we have not fully developed the land is because the matter is in court,” he explained.
The comments follow renewed tension between the Peaceful Settlers Traders Association and the Ashaiman Municipal Assembly after reports that about 100 shops have been earmarked for demolition.
While the traders insist they have legal documentation, the MP has reportedly stated that he cannot determine ownership of the land, stressing that the matter lies within the jurisdiction of the Municipal Assembly and the courts.
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