GBINTIRI RESIDENTS PROTEST ALLEGED REDIRECTION OF 24-HOUR MARKET PROJECT

GBINTIRI RESIDENTS PROTEST ALLEGED REDIRECTION OF 24-HOUR MARKET PROJECT

Residents of Gbintiri in the East Mamprusi Municipality have taken to the streets to protest what they describe as the politically motivated diversion of a 24-hour market project from their community to other areas.

The controversy has placed the North East Regional Minister, Tia Ibrahim, and the Municipal Chief Executive, Barichi David Bukari, at the center of public criticism.

Protesters claim the project, originally intended for Gbintiri-widely regarded as the municipality’s busiest trading hub-has been redirected to Langbinsi and Sakogu, which are believed to be the hometowns of the two officials.

Demonstrators, made up of youth groups, traditional leaders, and civil society actors, expressed frustration over the decision, arguing that it undermines fairness, transparency, and sound economic planning.

According to the residents, Gbintiri already operates as a vibrant commercial centre with near 24-hour activity, making it the most suitable location for such a project. They insist that relocating the market to less active communities defeats the purpose of the government’s 24-hour economy policy aimed at boosting trade, productivity, and job creation.

The protesters further accused the officials of using their positions to favour their communities at the expense of broader development within the municipality. They also questioned the rationale behind allocating two separate 24-hour markets within the same area while excluding Gbintiri entirely.

Residents referenced campaign promises made during the 2024 elections by leaders, including President John Dramani Mahama, which emphasized inclusive governance and equitable development, stating that such commitments are now being undermined.

The group is demanding an immediate review of the decision, transparency in the selection criteria, publication of feasibility studies, and broader stakeholder engagement.

Protesters have vowed to continue peaceful demonstrations until their concerns are addressed, stressing that their actions are a call for fairness and accountability rather than confrontation.

Source: MyJoyOnline