"Land Is Not Our Problem" – Aowin Chief Slams Enchi Market Demolition, Demands Answers From MCE

Subheading: Paramount Chief Beyeeman Tano Kwaw Benbuin III questions lack of consultation as controversial demolition sparks political backlash

Traditional Ruler Condemns Demolition of Historic Enchi Market

ENCHI, AOWIN MUNICIPALITY – The demolition of the old Enchi market has ignited a fierce dispute between traditional authorities and municipal officials, with the Aowin Paramount Chief publicly challenging the decision-making process that led to the facility's destruction.

Beyeeman Tano Kwaw Benbuin III has condemned the Aowin Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), Stephen Morcher, for proceeding with the demolition without adequate consultation with traders and residents who would be directly affected by the redevelopment.

The Paramount Chief argued that major development projects should not be implemented without first allowing affected stakeholders to voice their concerns—a fundamental principle of participatory governance that he says was flagrantly disregarded in this instance.

"Find Another Location"—Chief Questions MCE's Decision

In a video that has since gone viral on social media, the traditional leader posed a pointed question that has resonated with many residents:

"Can't they build the market elsewhere and leave this one there for the people because land is not our problem in Aowin?"

The Paramount Chief emphasised that the Aowin Municipality possesses sufficient land resources, making the decision to demolish the existing structure rather than develop an alternative site both perplexing and unnecessary.

Beyeeman Tano Kwaw Benbuin III also expressed dismay over the resources invested in the old market over decades, noting that the facility had been progressively developed and expanded under successive administrations stretching back to the Rawlings era.

Political Fallout Looms as Criticism Mounts

The demolition—reportedly part of plans to construct a new market under the government's flagship 24-hour economy programme—has triggered widespread criticism from both political divides in the municipality.

Samuel Yaw Obeng, Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Aowin Constituency, described the demolition as "unfortunate," calling on the MCE to make proper arrangements for displaced traders before proceeding with further development.

"Adequate provisions should have been made for these traders before the facility was pulled down," Obeng stated, urging the MCE to reconsider the approach and heed the concerns of market women and affected business owners.

Meanwhile, sources indicate that the controversy has created unease among some National Democratic Congress (NDC) supporters in the municipality, with growing fears that the decision could have significant political repercussions for the party ahead of future elections.

Historical Context Deepens Controversy

The old Enchi market holds significant historical value, with its origins tracing back to the Rawlings administration when the land was first acquired for development. Successive municipal administrations contributed to its expansion, with various former executives and public officials leaving their mark on the facility.

The demolition has therefore been viewed by many not merely as a development decision but as an erasure of community heritage and years of collective investment.

What Happens Next?

As tensions simmer in the municipality, all eyes remain on the MCE and the Municipal Assembly to respond to the growing chorus of dissent. The controversy highlights the delicate balance between development ambitions and the need for inclusive governance—a lesson that may yet prove costly if not properly addressed.

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