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Liberia: Govt to Demolish Illegal Buildings
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The NEWS (Monrovia)
9 May 2008
Posted to the web 9 May 2008
Robbie Semple
Monrovia
The government of Liberia has announced its intention to ramp up enforcement of zoning laws across the country. Demolition of illegal structures will begin this weekend. Redemption Road, Pipeline Paynesville and Barnesville Dry Rice market will be the first areas of focus for the demolition project, which will commence on Saturday 10th May.
"The aim of the project is to ensure the safety of residents, free flow of traffic and to enhance the ongoing development projects in the country," Minister for Public Works, Loseni Donzo explained at a press conference at the Ministry of Information on Thursday. The Minister argued that illegal dwellings are a public hazard, citing the example of an ambulance that was unable to reach a house fire recently, as access was blocked by structures in violation of zoning laws.
A press release from the Ministry of Public Works calls on: "all residents occupying structures in violation of the zoning laws to voluntarily relocate themselves and avoid embarrassment."
The ministry has issued public warning notices two weeks in advance of any proposed demolition. This is to ensure the public are aware of any planned relocations and have time to comply. "Though we have enforced the laws for a while, we want the public to know we are serious this time. Things have gotten out of whack and basically we are ready to be robust," Mr. Donzo warned.
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When asked whether evicted citizens would receive any support in relocating, Minister Donzo pointed to the precedent the President has set in offering compensation to such residents before, but noted that, "these people are violating the laws and we are not obligated to do it."
Mr. Donzo outlined ambitious plans for the enforcement of zoning laws. "Though the Ministry of Public Works does not currently have all resources needed, we are well prepared for this project. The project will be expanding and don't be surprised to see us working on Benson Street, Johnson Street and Randall Street."
Minister of Information, Dr. Lawrence Bropleh echoed his colleague's stern tone: "People say the government doesn't have teeth; that it can't implement. Well, we have to start somewhere and we are starting here. No pains. No gains. Don't test the resolve of this government by being illegal, because we will act."
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