The government has suspended plans to demolish sections of the Makola Market for redevelopment following strong resistance from traders who argued the exercise threatened their livelihoods and businesses.

The decision follows a protest by traders who petitioned authorities to reconsider what they described as a forceful eviction, citing inadequate consultation ahead of the planned demolition. The traders argued that the redevelopment should not proceed without clear engagement, relocation arrangements, and a mutually agreed roadmap.

Following discussions during a visit to the market on Saturday, May 16, the Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, announced that the demolition exercise has been put on hold to allow consultations with the affected traders to continue. Addressing the traders, the Minister stated that the Monday demolition would not commence and that the concerns raised would be reviewed carefully.

“I will not urge the Monday demolition to commence. We will not rush to carry out any action because there are many issues involved. Based on what we have heard, it is better that we create a clear path for dialogue and resolve the matter peacefully, because the current situation may not be acceptable to everyone,” she said.

The Minister assured the traders that the government is committed to dialogue and will use the coming days to engage all stakeholders to find a common ground.

“Yes, we are going back to the drawing board. I came here on the instructions of John Dramani Mahama, and because concerns have been raised, I will return to the Metro authorities to review all the steps taken so far. We will assess what can be revised, what needs more emphasis, and how best to move forward,” she added, while urging all parties to remain calm.

The traders welcomed the Minister’s intervention, describing the engagement as a positive step while maintaining that proper consultations should have preceded the redevelopment plan.

Ebenezer Birikorang, speaking on behalf of the traders’ association, clarified that they are not opposed to development but want authorities to account for the human and economic consequences of relocation.

“We have never said we are against development. This market has seen renovations before, and we understand that development is necessary. But where there are human costs, there must also be dialogue so that people’s concerns are addressed,” he said.

He noted that many traders have built businesses in the market over several years, with some working there for over eight years. He added that abrupt displacement could severely affect their operations, particularly for those servicing loans or expecting imported goods.