The used vehicle market in Bouyizène, Akbou, Algeria, will remain closed until January 31, following six unsuccessful attempts at auction. The Akbou Communal People's Assembly (APC) announced the suspension of commercial activities at the market, which is one of the largest weekly markets in the region, held every Friday. The market's closure has sparked controversy, with the mayor and opposition trading blame.
According to Akbou Mayor Mouloud Salhi, the failed auction was due to the high starting price of 18 billion centimes set by the domain services for a three-year period, which was above all received offers. The price was established based on an extract from the estimation report transmitted to the commune services. Salhi stated that the APC had done its work within the allotted time, citing the adoption of the cahier des charges by the communal adjudication committee on November 7, 2018.
To avoid similar situations in the future, a clause has been included in the new cahier des charges allowing the adjudicator to continue managing the market until it is re-auctioned. However, the opposition has criticized the executive, accusing it of being responsible for the impasse that will cost the municipality dearly. Ibalidène Boussaâd, an APC member, highlighted four key issues: non-respect of the cahier des charges, delay in the adjudication procedure, a three-year auction period, and the market's closure despite non-adjudication.
The municipality has requested a new starting price from the domain services following the failed auction. The closure of the market is expected to result in a loss of 500 million centimes for the local collectivity this month. Akbou residents have taken to social media to express their concerns, with some describing the situation as a "catastrophe".
The executive has stated that the goal is to "valorize" the market, which has been abandoned for years. Mayor Salhi emphasized that work is underway to optimize the concession of the vehicle market. Various development projects have been launched, including the creation of a new road connecting the market to the RN26, cleaning and dredging of the Illoula stream, and revetment of roads with béton bitumineux.
The development projects also include the realization of networks such as potable water, drainage of rainwater, and sanitation. The markets for fruits and vegetables and parking rights have been attributed for 4.5 billion centimes each. The closure of the used vehicle market has sparked concerns about the impact on the local economy and residents.
The situation remains uncertain, with the market's future hanging in the balance. The municipality and opposition must work together to find a solution that benefits the local community. The used vehicle market's closure has highlighted the need for effective management and communication between authorities and residents.
Key points
- The used vehicle market in Akbou will remain closed until January 31 due to a failed auction.
- The opposition has criticized the executive for the impasse, accusing it of being responsible for the situation.
- Development projects have been launched to optimize the concession of the vehicle market and improve infrastructure.
