Scrap dealers in Agbogbloshie Old Fadama, a community within the Odododiodio constituency, have declared their intention to boycott the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the upcoming elections.
This decision stems from their dissatisfaction with the NPP's handling of their eviction from the land they previously occupied. The eviction, carried out by then-Greater Accra Regional Minister Henry Quartey, has severely impacted their livelihoods, transforming their former workspace into a municipal dumping ground.
Ussif Mahama, Chairman of the Agbogbloshie Old Fadama Scrap Dealers Association, expressed the dealers' collective frustration in an interview with Citi News. He stated that the eviction not only destroyed their businesses but also left them with no alternative means of income. The area, once bustling with activity, is now filled with waste, rendering it unusable for their trade.
"The demolition of the scrap yard harmed us a lot, and we are not happy about what they did to us," Mahama said. "We're surprised to see that they've been dumping rubbish here. It's very painful to sack scrap dealers and use the land as a dumping site. We are only praying that the NDC [National Democratic Congress] should come back to power so that we will come back."
The dealers' collective decision to support the NDC highlights the significant political impact of the eviction and the ongoing challenges faced by this marginalized community. Their vote, along with others similarly affected, could potentially sway the outcome of the election in the Odododiodio constituency.
The incident underscores the need for careful consideration of the social and economic consequences of large-scale evictions and urban development projects. The lack of adequate relocation and support for affected businesses raises serious questions about the government's commitment to its citizens' well-being.
The situation in Agbogbloshie serves as a stark reminder of the importance of equitable and sustainable urban planning.
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