Flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, has condemned the demolition of structures at the La Pleasure Beach in Accra, describing the area as economically and culturally significant to Ghana.
In a statement issued on Saturday, October 3, Dr Bawumia said La Beach had developed into a major tourism and entertainment destination and served as a source of livelihood for thousands of people, particularly young people.
His comments follow a demolition exercise at the beach on Friday, October 2, which was carried out by security personnel, including members of the 48 Engineer Regiment of the Ghana Armed Forces and the Ghana Police Service. Several structures were pulled down, leaving affected businesses and workers salvaging their belongings.
Dr Bawumia said he was concerned about the manner in which the structures were demolished.
“It’s sad that this very significant enclave has been demolished so wantonly. It is particularly painful and surprising that even movable assets which the owners could have removed easily were destroyed most bizarrely,” he said.
He noted that La Beach had hosted international events and shows and had played a role in supporting the tourism and related sectors during the NPP administration.
Dr Bawumia said, if given the opportunity, he would work to rebuild the beach economy and create a more organised environment for businesses operating there.
“I am convinced that we must make La Beach a major tourism and economic enclave and I pledge my commitment to the people of La, especially the businesses at La beach to make that happen,” he stated.
He outlined five measures he said would form part of his approach to the area.
These include rebuilding the beach economy and issuing leases to businesses, redesigning the space to meet required standards, securing land for a beach hotel and other accommodation facilities, engaging owners of LABOMA Beach to resolve issues and establish compliant businesses, and working on the lagoon to address flooding and environmental concerns.
