Gbarnga demolition halted

Serious tension has erupted between the Gbarnga City Corporation and members of the Muslim community over ongoing demolition exercise in the provincial city. Earlier, a group of Muslim elders had been called at the Bong County Police Headquarters for questioning after a complaint filed by Gbarnga City Mayor Marvin Cole.

But following a major meeting, authorities of the county have with immediate effect, halted the demolition exercise.There has been huge controversy surrounding the exercise, which left many residents homeless. At recent meeting presided over Bong County Superintendent Selena Polson Mappy and Senator Henry Yallah, Mayor Cole was instructed to halt the demolition until otherwise decided.
Residents of Gbarnga had been upset over the demolition of makeshift structures by Mayor Cole.

The demolition exercise, which started several weeks ago, has left many persons homeless and several businesses relocated.

Many of those affected criticize the Gbarnga City Corporation especially, Mayor Marvin Cole, who took office just two months ago.

Some of the victims told this paper they were given just three weeks’ notice, while others said they were absolutely not informed about the exercise, but only saw bulldozer at their houses, breaking down their structures.

Many of the victims threatened to take Mayor Cole to court on grounds that his action is unlawful.

According to them, they welcome development in the city, but should have been duly notified and given chance to resettle.

One resident whose belongings were with her outside, narrated that she was in the Gbarnga Central Market while her structure was being demolished, and was only informed by neighbors.Editing by Jonathan Browne