The Member of Parliament-elect for the Abuakwa South constituency in the Eastern region, Dr Kingsley Agyeman, has called on the government to intervene immediately and consider the reconstruction of the Katamanto market in Accra’s central business district, following Thursday’s fire outbreak.
Joy News understands that the traders affected by the fire have already begun rebuilding the market stalls and pavilions using their technical expertise.
However, speaking to journalists shortly after MPs’ registration in Parliament, Dr Agyeman stressed that the reconstruction should be government-led to ensure proper standards and safety.
“I hear they are reconstructing the market, and I strongly oppose that. We can’t continue to do the same things over and over again and expect different results. The reconstruction must be handled by the government,” he stated.
He further emphasized that the new market should feature properly engineered structures, noting, “We can’t continue to rebuild the market in the same way that led to the fire.”
Although the MP expressed sympathy for the victims and acknowledged their need to work for their survival, he insisted that the right approach must be taken to prevent future disasters.
“As much as I sympathize with them and understand their plight, the government must take charge of the reconstruction,” he added.
Dr Agyeman also highlighted the importance of insuring the market as part of the reconstruction effort.
The Katamanto fire, which broke out hours into the new year, destroyed over 30,000 businesses and resulted in one fatality. The area, a popular clothing market in Accra, sees thousands of Ghanaians visiting daily for trade.
The Ghana Fire Service has launched an investigation into the incident, with faulty electrical wiring suspected as the cause of the fire or arson.
Meanwhile, a similar fire has been reported at the Kwadaso wood market in Kumasi, where over 130 stalls were destroyed.
Also the Gbese Stool, under the leadership of Paramount Chief Nii Ayi Bonte II, has warned people not to put up wooden structures on the Kantamanto land, indicating that the government doesn’t own the property.
Fire incidents are common during Ghana’s dry season, particularly in rural and densely populated urban areas, where bushfires and market fires are frequent occurrences.