A/R: Barekase residents demonstrate against planned relocation of 24-Hour market
Residents and traders of Barekese in the Atwima Nwabiagya North District of the Ashanti Region have staged a massive demonstration against the District Chief Executive, Hon. Mba Alambila Zechariah, over plans to relocate a proposed 24-hour economy market from Barekese to Asuofua.
The demonstrators described the decision as unfair and unjustified, insisting that Barekase, as the district capital, is the most appropriate location for the project.
The protesters argued that Barekase has vast tracts of available land suitable for the construction of the market and that siting it there would significantly boost economic activity within the district.
During the demonstration held on Monday, January 19, 2026, they said establishing the market in the district capital would also help relocate traders currently operating along major roads, easing traffic congestion and improving public safety.
Speaking to the media during the protest, the leader and convener of the demonstration, Mr. Dickson Amankwa, said the action was jointly organised by traders and members of the National Democratic Congress to demand development for Barekese.
“We cannot allow our DCE to take the development of Barekase for granted by relocating such an important project to Asuofua,” he said, adding, “We are calling on President John Dramani Mahama to intervene because Barekase also deserves its fair share of development.”
Mr. Amankwa further lamented that since Barekese was separated from Nkawie, several major projects, including the police station, fire service station, and hospital, have been sited at Nkawie, leaving Barekase relatively underserved.
“Now that Barekase is a district capital, it is only right that key infrastructure projects are brought here to reflect its status and support its growth,” he added.
As part of the demonstration, the protesters presented a petition to the District Chief Executive of Atwima Nwabiagya North.
The petition was received on his behalf by the District Coordinating Director, Mr. Solomon Kwaku Adjei, who assured the residents that their concerns would be given due attention.
“I will forward the petition to the appropriate authorities, and you will hear from us soon. You have also demonstrated maturity by embarking on a peaceful protest, and your concerns will be addressed,” he said.
The demonstration saw residents, traders, and NDC party members, many clad in red, marching through the principal streets of Barekese to register their displeasure over the proposed relocation of the 24-hour economy market from the district capital.
Story by Francis Appiah
