The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) is bent on carrying out its demolishing exercise at Sodom and Gomorrah, a popular slum in Accra, despite political and humanitarian interventions.

The Metropoliatan Mayor, Alfred Vanderpuige in an interview with Joy News’ Dzifa Bampoe insisted his outfit is ready and will carry out the action soon.

He would indicate when bulldozers will break in.

His latest warning comes after deputy information minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa had demanded cool heads and a human face to the demolishing exercise.

Human rights activists have also called on the AMA to exercise restraint in carrying out its constitutional mandate, fearing such a destruction will worsen the plight of over 50,000 dwellers at the slum.

The dwellers themselves have made overtures in talking the AMA out of the exercise, or at least buy more time.

Philip Kumah, spokesperson of the dwellers said they have initiated talks with the AMA hoping their plea will be considered.

He confirmed receiving letters from the AMA directing them to evacuate, before September 30, 2009, but he and other affected persons are banking hopes on a last minute meeting with the mayor.

Dr. Vanderpuige however remains firm in his conviction that the slum must go, and even though admitted that his outfit is opened for talks, nonetheless cautioned that “the dwellers need to know that AMA is serious with the demolition exercise.”

He commended a few of the dwellers who he said were beginning to vacate the area and warned “time to destroy the slum is imminent.”

He said all illegal structures will be razed in the area, “one of these days,” he added.

Story by Nathan Gadugah/Myjoyonline.com/Ghana

Tags: accra, Alfred Vanderpuige, doom, General, ghana, sodom and gomorrah