Senyo Hosi has warned that the demolition of structures at La Beach threatens the livelihoods of people who depend on the area for their income.
Speaking on Joy News’ Newsfile, he said the beach had supported economic activity for years and had become an important part of the community’s social and recreational life.
“La Beach was not just a beach. It was the livelihoods for people,” he said.
Hosi recalled visiting the beach as a child and said vendors and other operators had built their livelihoods around the area, which also served as a popular destination for entertainment.
He argued that the demolitions could not be considered in isolation from the people whose businesses and income depended on the location.
Hosi said some affected residents had asked for the opportunity to continue trading until after Christmas, when they expected to make more money from the seasonal business.
He also questioned why the authorities had allowed the area to develop into its existing form over many years if the structures were considered unlawful.
“We have institutions there. The military is just across the street. So if these were illegal structures, why did we all wait till this point?” he asked.
He said the state had a responsibility to provide direction and ensure that development along the coast was properly organised, rather than allow economic activity to continue for years before intervening through demolitions.
Hosi acknowledged the need for proper planning, but insisted that it should account for the people whose livelihoods were at stake.
He said any redevelopment plan should be communicated clearly and implemented through engagement with traders, community representatives and the relevant local authorities.
