Minority Supports Modern Markets But Opposes Destruction Of Public Assets For 24-Hour Economy Markets - Asenso-Boakye

The Member of Parliament for Bantama and Ranking Member on the Local Government and Rural Development Committee, Hon. Francis Asenso-Boakye, says the Minority supports investments in modern markets and stronger local economies, but insists development must be based on needs, proper planning, consultation and value for money.

Addressing the press in Parliament on the government's 24-hour economy market program, Hon. Asenso-Boakye warned that government cannot preach decentralization while imposing development priorities from the centre.

"We cannot preach decentralization while imposing development priorities from the centre. We cannot destroy useful public and community assets merely to replace them in the name of a new, if you like, political program," he stated.

According to him, the current approach of demolishing existing markets, schools, courts and other viable public infrastructure to make way for new 24-hour economy markets is not justifiable, especially at a time of severe fiscal constraints.

Hon. Asenso-Boakye called on government to pause and listen to affected communities, particularly market women and traders who are resisting the demolitions in several districts.

"Government must pause, listen, listen to the affected communities, review the program, and get it right. Build where there's a genuine need, upgrade where that makes greater economic sense," he stressed.

He urged government to consult project-affected people, respect local development plans, protect existing public assets and protect the public purse.

"Consult the project affected people, respect local development plans, protect existing public assets, and protect the public purse," Hon. Asenso-Boakye emphasized.