Omanghana
The Member of Parliament for Suhum, Frank Asiedu Bekoe, has urged the Municipal Assembly to complete the proposed 24-Hour Economy Market before relocating traders from Amponsah Market.
Appealing to Municipal Chief Executive Lydia Ohenewa Sarah, the MP warned that moving more than 1,000 traders without a suitable alternative could disrupt businesses and threaten household incomes. He said the new facility should be completed and properly equipped before traders are required to leave their existing premises.
His intervention follows an October 8 notice directing occupants of assembly-owned shops, containers and other structures on the affected land to vacate by Friday, October 16, 2026, to allow demolition and redevelopment.
The traders have challenged the timing, arguing that relocation ahead of the Christmas shopping season could cause significant financial losses. They say they support improvements to the market but want adequate consultation and practical arrangements to keep their businesses operating.
They are requesting an extension of at least six months to prepare for the move and secure suitable trading spaces.
The Assembly, however, maintains that discussions took place on June 26, 2026, during which the affected occupants agreed to leave by September 30. It says that agreement was subsequently communicated in a July 14 letter and that preparations for redevelopment have been completed.
Traditional authorities have also called for further engagement between the Assembly and traders before relocation proceeds.
The proposed Suhum 24-Hour Economy Model Market forms part of the government’s program to expand commercial activity and support local businesses. At the groundbreaking ceremony, reported in July 2026, Eastern Regional Minister Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey said the facility would provide modern trading infrastructure and create employment opportunities.
Source: Omanghana
