Kejetia Petty Traders Association Chairman, Emmanuel Amoah, has reacted to comments made by the Mayor of the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly, Richard Ofori Agyemang Boadi.
He stated that they have a reservation about what the mayor said.
He admitted that some traders sell in the streets, which is unacceptable.
Emmanuel Amoah believes the mayor has a responsibility to engage them to discuss this matter. He warned that the mayor’s approach will be short-lived.
The Chairman noted that they are prepared to assist the Mayor and his team on the best approach towards this exercise.
“We have children and families we take care of. If he wants to embark on an exercise, he should have engaged us. We are even prepared to meet with him and discuss this matter so that we can identify those who are selling in the streets. If he does not engage us and starts this exercise, abuses the law, and flogs people, I can confidently say that the exercise will not be sustainable.”
The Mayor of Kumasi, Richard Ofori Agyemang Boadi, has warned traders selling in the streets and pavements to vacate or face consequences.
He expressed concern over the safety and well-being of both traders and pedestrians operating within the central business district.
Beginning Wednesday, April 16, 2024, the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) will roll out a two-week decongestion exercise to remove traders who have taken over pavements and roadside spaces.
He warned that those who refuse to obey the directive will be flogged.
The Mayor emphasised that the decision is aimed at ensuring the safety and accessibility of public spaces for all.
But speaking on Nyankonton Mu Nsem on Rainbow Radio 87.5FM, Emmanuel Amoah said, “There is a need for him to embark on public education before rolling out the exercise. When you do that, you will not achieve the expected outcome.”
He also expressed concern about the Ghanaian public’s preference for purchasing items from traders who sell in the streets or pavements.
He said they have had situations where they had gone to the markets allocated for them, and, for months, their wares were not patronised, so they were forced to go back to the streets and pavements.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
