Anloga artisans deny objecting to resettlement

Kumasi, Aug. 28, GNA - Artisans at the Anloga wood industrial area in the Kumasi Metropolis, have denied speculations that they had either resisted or objected to the Government's plan to resettle them at Sokoban.

Togbe S.K. Fugah, Chairman of the Anloga Resettlement Committee, who made the denial, said the artisans had never objected to the plan, only that they continue to crave the indulgence of the Government to be transparent and specific about when it intends re-locating them. Togbe Fugah made the denial at a forum of the Anloga Resettlement Committee in Kumasi on Sunday.

"Government should also strive to, at every stage of planning and implementation of the project, involve the artisans", he added. Togbe Fugah said the main concern of the artisans was the unplanned manner in which dates were being announced by Government officials, with respect to the resettlement.

He said the practice, if not checked, could undermine efforts of the Government at resettling the artisans as it instils in the artisans fear, and above all scares potential customers away from bringing business to the artisans.

Togbe Fugah therefore appealed to the Government to come out with a specific date, on which the artisans are to be re-located at their new premises, Sokoban, to set their minds at ease and help them prepare towards it.

Mr. Evans Kwabla Ablordeppey, Organiser of the Committee, stressed the need for Government to give the artisans ample time prior to their re-location.

Mr. Hope Keku, Secretary of the Committee, also appealed to Utility Service Providers to bear with the artisans in the provision of vital services.