The government has directed the deployment of 24-hour security at the Flower Pot Interchange to prevent hawkers from trading at the site, following a directive barring vendors from setting up their businesses in the area.
Barely a day after the interchange’s commissioning, some hawkers returned to the site, prompting Greater Accra Regional Minister Titus Glover to personally oversee the dismantling of unauthorized structures.
This move has sparked frustration among the displaced traders, many of whom claim they were promised an alternative space to continue their businesses.
Sandra Korkor, one of the vendors, shared her concerns: “The workers directed us to sell beneath the overhead, prompting us to take out loans to enhance our businesses. We were optimistic during the inauguration, proudly wearing NPP t-shirts and attending to show our support, believing that a designated selling area would be allocated to us in exchange for our votes for Bawumia. However, we were unexpectedly instructed to vacate the premises. This situation is unjust, as we are now unable to repay our loans without a designated selling location.”
Another vendor, Selassie Nkansah, appealed to authorities for assistance. “We acknowledge the project, but we’re pleading to them to get us a place to sell. I have a responsibility of paying my children’s school fees,” he said.
In addition to maintaining security, the government is considering extending fencing around the interchange to further prevent hawkers from reoccupying the area. Minister Glover has tasked the Ledzokuku Municipal Assembly with ensuring the directive is strictly enforced.