Gbarnga – The Gbarnga City Corporation has initiated efforts to relocate marketers from dilapidated market structures to a newly constructed modern market, valued at over $900,000 USD and funded by the Japanese Government and the Government of Liberia. On Sunday, the Corporation began encouraging marketers to move to the new facility while dismantling makeshift structures, including the old Gbarnga General Market.
Despite prior notices, some marketers were hesitant to relocate, while others had already moved to the new market since its dedication. However, the demolition of the old market structure on Monday led to protests by marketers, who claimed there wasn’t enough space in the new market to accommodate them.
The protests escalated with roadblocks being set up in the city. In response, Senator Prince Moye intervened, addressing the protesting marketers and offering a temporary solution.
“I was not in the country, but I heard about your protest today,” said Senator Moye. “I don’t know what the Corporation wants to do with this land, but you guys will stay here; in fact, you aren’t going anywhere. I am giving you money to reconstruct the market while I hold further discussions with the Gbarnga City Corporation.”
Senator Moye presented 100 bundles of zinc and three hundred thousand Liberian Dollars (300,000 LD) to aid in the reconstruction of the market. He assured the market women of President Joseph Nyumah Boakai’s commitment to improving their lives, emphasizing the need to listen to constituents’ concerns and take decisive action to address their needs.
“The provision of the necessary resources for reroofing the building will ensure your comfort and safety while conducting your businesses,” he stated.
With Senator Moye’s intervention, market women are now looking forward to returning to their familiar selling spaces at the old market facility. His decision highlights the importance of responsive leadership and the prioritization of community needs.
Meanwhile, pundits believe that such action by Senator Moye could lead to a similar scenario as the one affecting the Omega Market in Paynesville, where marketers have abandoned the new market building.
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