The Deputy Minister of Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Mark Okraku-Mantey, has expressed disapproval over the demolition of the Fantasy Dome, which took place in March 2024 to pave the way for construction at the Trade Fair site. The Dome, a popular entertainment venue owned by Leslie Quaynor, was dismantled in what Okraku-Mantey described as an unnecessarily harsh manner.
Speaking on Daybreak Hitz on November 21, the Deputy Minister revealed that the demolition was conducted without clear instructions from leadership. “I do not think that leadership gave instructions for what happened,” he stated. “If you meant well, [the structure was a] prefab. Just dismantle the man’s property. But I hear the people destroyed it. That one, we cannot defend it. It was unfair, and it should have been done well.”
The Deputy Minister criticized the lack of proper execution, emphasizing that such actions undermine trust and accountability. He clarified that the Trade Fair does not fall under the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture, limiting the ministry’s ability to directly address the situation.
Okraku-Mantey revealed that he had earlier contacted Leslie Quaynor to discuss relocating the Dome before its demolition. He even suggested a potential location at the National Museum but noted that the Dome’s size made the plan unfeasible.
The Fantasy Dome’s destruction has drawn attention to how property disputes and redevelopment projects are handled, with many calling for greater fairness and consideration for property owners. As discussions around the incident continue, Okraku-Mantey’s remarks underscore the need for more compassionate approaches to resolving such disputes in the future.