The Mayor of Kumasi, Richard Ofori Agyemang Boadi, has issued a stern two-week ultimatum to traders operating along pavements in the central business district, warning of firm sanctions for those who flout the directive.
Speaking at a press conference in Kumasi on Monday, April 14, the mayor announced that beginning Wednesday, April 16, the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) will embark on a decongestion exercise to clear all unauthorized traders from pavements and roadsides.
The move, according to the KMA, is aimed at reducing congestion in the city center, which officials say is being exacerbated by persistent pavement trading.
Mr. Boadi expressed frustration over the failure of previous measures including arrests and confiscation of goods to deter traders from returning to unauthorized spaces.
“Such acts of indiscipline have greatly contributed to congestion in the city and must be dealt with decisively,” the mayor stated.
He further warned that tougher enforcement methods, including the use of physical force, may be employed as a deterrent.
“I have my own military-democratic style which I will be implementing. When we say leave the space and you don’t comply, and I arrive with my team, you will be beaten,” he said. “If you don’t want to experience that kind of situation, do what is right and lawful.”
He stressed the importance of maintaining order in Kumasi, describing it as the historic “garden city of West Africa” and the seat of the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.
“This is Otumfuo’s city. If you want to make the job difficult for me, I will let your body feel the difficulty you are causing,” Mr. Boadi added.
The KMA is urging all affected traders to relocate within the given timeframe to avoid penalties.
Source: Isaac Justice Bediako
