Minority MPs criticise Kumasi Mayor over threats to beat traders

The Minority Caucus on Local Government and Rural Development Committee has criticised Kumasi Mayor Richard Ofori Agyemang Boadi over what they describe as “reckless” and “unconstitutional” threats of physical assault on traders as part of an ongoing decongestion exercise.

In a press statement signed by Ranking Member Francis Asenso-Boakye, the Minority described his comments as “deeply concerning,” warning that his statements risk “undermining public confidence in local authorities” and may violate the fundamental rights of traders.

“We have taken note, with deep concern, of recent statements made by the Metropolitan Chief Executive… in which he described the adoption of a so-called ‘military-democratic’ style of enforcement and threatened physical assault on traders who do not comply with directives,” the statement said.

While the MPs acknowledged that Assemblies are legally empowered under the Local Governance Act (Act 936) to regulate public spaces and enforce bylaws, they stressed that these powers must be exercised within the boundaries of Ghana’s democratic and legal framework.

“Violence, threats of physical abuse, and the use of fear as a governance tool are unacceptable in any form,” the statement declared. “They have no place in a constitutional democracy like ours.”

The Members of the Minority on local government appealed to the Minister for Local Government and Rural Development to “intervene as a matter of urgency” and ensure the Mayor retracts his comments.

He called on the government to advocate for a more lawful, “respectful, and humane approach to enforcement.”

He said any meaningful attempt at decongesting Kumasi’s central business district must be done in collaboration with those most affected: the traders.

“We urge the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly to engage meaningfully with the affected traders, and work with all relevant stakeholders to identify and provide suitable alternative trading spaces,” they said.

They warned that decongestion “must not be pursued at the cost of livelihoods,” describing the traders not as lawbreakers but as “citizens contributing to the local economy under often difficult conditions.”

They reminded the assembly of the kind of local governance Ghanaians deserve—one that is “inclusive, accountable, and human-centred.”

The MPs reiterated their commitment to clean, organised cities, but insisted these must be achieved through “collaborative planning, education, and lawful enforcement, not intimidation and violence.”

“Let us all commit to building a country governed by the rule of law, compassion, and respect for the dignity of every Ghanaian,” they added.

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