IFAAD Condemns Unilateral Construction at Stabroek Market, Urges Dialogue with Vendors

The Institute for Action Against Discrimination (IFAAD) has expressed strong concern over the sudden construction of a wooden wall at Stabroek Market Square by the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development, describing the move as unilateral and exclusionary.

According to reports from vendors, the wall was erected between last evening and this morning without prior notice, consultation, or engagement, effectively blocking them from the road and severely disrupting their ability to operate. Vendors expressed shock and frustration at the unexpected development, particularly as many had made substantial financial investments in preparation for the busy holiday shopping season.

IFAAD condemned the action as “inconsiderate, discriminatory, and in violation of the principles of fair administrative practice,” emphasizing that “development and beautification projects must never come at the expense of people’s livelihoods, nor should they be carried out in a manner that disregards the rights and economic stability of vulnerable working-class citizens.”

Vendors told IFAAD that they would have been willing to accommodate the works after the peak holiday period, an approach that could have balanced their income needs with the Ministry’s development objectives.

The Institute urged all public bodies to adopt people-centered and nondiscriminatory practices in implementing development projects, noting, “No citizen—especially those who depend daily on informal economic activity—should wake up to find their livelihood literally walled off.”

IFAAD called for immediate engagement between the Ministry and affected vendors to resolve the situation and ensure that future projects respect both public interest and individual economic rights.