Kantamanto Traders Association is dissatisfied with Gbese stool's caution against traders rebuilding the market.

The Kantamanto Traders Association has voiced dissatisfaction with the Gbese Stool's strong warning against using timber materials for market reconstruction in the wake of Thursday's tragic fire at Accra's Kantamanto Market, which burned over 7,000 businesses and lost one life.

Citing their ownership of the property, the Gbese Stool firmly advised traders not to use wooden structures for the restoration during a press conference on Saturday, January 4.

He acknowledged the Stool's legitimate ownership of the land in an interactive interview with Mr. Samuel Amoah, the head of the traders organization, when asked why they had begun renovation in defiance of the Gbese stool's warning. He did, however, voice his displeasure with the warning's timing and tone, emphasizing that the traders had not anticipated such a firm stand at this stage of the reconstruction.

Mr. Amoah stated, "We recognize and honor the Gbese Stool's ownership of the land." But at this point, we weren't prepared for such a forceful approach. We were hoping for greater empathy and understanding from the Stool, given the traders are already coping with severe losses and hardship following the fire.

Mr. Amoah told them that the Traders Association is still dedicated to resolving the issue via communication and collaboration, notwithstanding their dissatisfaction. He affirmed that in order to further examine the issue, the association's leadership would meet with the representatives of Gbese Stool.

Mr. Amoah clarified, "Today, the leadership will meet with the representatives of Gbese Stool." "I can say with certainty that a lease and agreement have existed for more than 50 years. Ghana Railways, who I believe represent the government, started this project, not us.

We are prepared to meet with the chiefs to discuss any issues and, if required, to express regret for not contacting them earlier. The government might step in at that moment. I'm hoping that the government will do more to address this problem.

"While the Gbese Stool is the rightful landowner, it is also well understood that all land in Ghana is ultimately vested in the hands of the government," Mr. Amoah continued, underscoring the legal component of land ownership in the nation.

We value them highly and respect their ownership. But we think that by talking things out, we can get to an agreement that works for everyone.

When the reporter for JoyNews asked if the traders were ready to leave the market, Mr. Amoah clarified that they would not depart unless appropriate plans for their relocation were in place.

Mr. Amoah went on to say, "The most discouraging part of this situation is that I expected the Gbese Stool to show more empathy at such a critical time."

Many of the traders are struggling, and many have already lost a great deal. The Stool ought to have come to us with compassion instead of a severe warning. We must band together, evaluate the circumstances, and come up with a solution that benefits everyone.

"The traders are still here because there is no clear plan for their relocation," Mr. Amoah continued. Until a suitable arrangement is arranged, we cannot depart. The timing of the warning is regrettable, even though the Gbese Stool is justified in issuing it. We acknowledge their viewpoint and are prepared to offer our apologies and continue the conversation in order to find a solution.

Mr. Amoah further emphasized the significance of the problem on a national level by pointing out that President Mahama and officials from the current NPP government have both visited the market. "Both political parties have visited us, which demonstrates that this issue is being taken seriously," he stated.

Before the traders started constructing, the Gbese Stool ought to have made their stance clear. It is discouraging to be accused now, after everything we have endured. However, we are still dedicated to working together to find a solution," he said.