'Traders are not adversaries' - Minority Caucus decries Kumasi Mayor’s threats of physical assault

The Minority Caucus is urging the Minister for Local Government to act quickly. They are concerned about “reckless” and “dangerous” statements from the Mayor of Kumasi.

Mayor Richard Ofori Agyemang Boadi made these comments during a decongestion exercise in Ashanti. The Caucus believes his threats of violence breach public trust and may violate human rights.

They stated, “These remarks risk undermining public confidence in local authorities.” The statement was signed by Bantama MP Francis Asenso-Boakye.

While they acknowledge the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly's (KMA) legal authority, they stress that it does not allow violence or threats.

“Violence and fear have no place in our democracy,” the MPs said. They are calling for immediate action from the Minister for Local Government and Rural Development.

The Caucus wants the Minister to urge the Mayor to retract his comments. They also want him to adopt a more respectful approach to enforcement.

Additionally, they encourage KMA to engage with traders through dialogue, not hostility. “Decongestion must not harm livelihoods,” they emphasized.

Traders contribute to the local economy under challenging conditions. The Minority Caucus is worried about heavy-handed governance becoming normal at the local level.

They remain committed to promoting inclusive and accountable governance in Ghana. The group insists that clean cities can be achieved through collaboration, not intimidation.

They concluded with a call for leadership based on law and respect for every Ghanaian's dignity. “Let us build a country governed by compassion and respect,” they urged.