Gaza: Vendors Refuse Relocation to New Market in Chongoene

The vendors say they do not intend to leave their current trading area despite instructions from the authorities to move.

According to the group, the Mercado da Paz is located near a sharp bend on National Road Number One (EN1), which they consider dangerous for both traders and customers.

The vendors say there have already been incidents in which vehicles left the road and nearly hit people in the area.

In addition to safety concerns, the group is also challenging claims that the Mercado da Paz belongs to the government.

Some vendors allege that the site is privately owned and argue that the authorities should first engage with the owners before proceeding with any relocation.

“That market was not built by the government. They want to take over someone else’s property by force,” said Marieta, a representative of the vendors.

The traders also say they face difficulties at their current location in Senta Baixa, including mobility problems and incidents of violence.

Despite these challenges, they say they will not accept relocation until a safer and more suitable solution is found.

The group is calling on the authorities to identify another site where they can continue working without putting their safety at risk.

“We want to ask Chapo to find us a place, and we want to know where we are supposed to go,” vendor Miséria Chachuaio said.

The dispute comes amid growing concerns over crime in the Senta Baixa area, where several robberies have been reported in recent weeks.

Police authorities have announced plans to strengthen their presence in the area in an effort to reduce crime and improve security.

Source: O País