Ga Dangme Council urges President Mahama to facilitate return of Labadi traders

The Ga Dangme Council has made a formal appeal to President John Mahama to intervene in the aftermath of the demolition of structures at the Labadi Pleasure Beach. The Council is requesting the government to facilitate the immediate return of affected traders whose businesses were dismantled by National Security operatives. This move aims to restore the livelihoods of local entrepreneurs and address the grievances of the La traditional area following the enforcement action carried out on October 2.

The demolitions were reportedly conducted following a request from the management of the Labadi Beach Hotel. The Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) defended the action, citing significant security risks and environmental concerns associated with the informal structures on the site. However, the Ga Dangme Council has challenged this narrative, arguing that the land in question was originally acquired from the La State without any form of compensation. They contend that the operations were executed without necessary consultations with local authorities or adequate notice to the individuals whose shops and stalls were destroyed.

Emphasizing the economic impact on the community, the Council is calling for urgent consultations between the central government, the La Traditional Authorities, and the affected traders. They are demanding a sustainable solution that balances the government's planning and public safety goals with the rights and needs of the La subjects who depend on the beach for their income. The Council maintains that any future redevelopment must respect the historical ownership of the land and involve the indigenous community in the decision-making process to ensure long-term stability and fairness.