Citizens to Protest on Sept. 17 against Lease of Komenda Sugar Factory to Indian Firm

A group calling itself concerned citizens of the Komenda Traditional Area have scheduled September 17 to protest against the lease of the Komenda Sugar Factory to an Indian firm.

In a statement released on Tuesday, September 3, 2024, communicating their intention to the Ghana Police Service, the group is demanding the reversal of the lease agreement, calling for the factory to return to its original purpose of processing locally grown sugarcane instead of importing raw sugar.

About a month ago, the Minister for Trade and Industry, K.T. Hammond announced plans by the government to lease the Komenda Sugar Factory to West African Agro Limited, an India-based firm, for a renewable term of 15 to 20 years.

The Minister explained that the move is necessary to revitalize the struggling factory’s operations adding that the initiative is part of broader efforts to boost the local sugar industry, reduce the importation of sugar, and create jobs because of the high demand for sugar.

However, residents argue that the lease agreement was made without proper procedural adherence and stakeholder consultation hence their decision to demonstrate.

The protest initially scheduled for August 13 in Komenda was relocated to the capital city, Accra where the group indicated that the decision aims to amplify their voices, escalate demands, and ensure that their concerns receive the attention they deserve at the highest level of government.

The group is therefore expecting a minimum of 5,000 concerned Ghanaians from Accra and surrounding regions to participate in the protest.

Protestors will converge at the 37 Lorry Station, Accra, and proceed to the Jubilee House.

Read full statement below

Source: Myrepubliconline.com