Traders at the Kejetia Market in Kumasi have rejected a proposal to close its doors on election day, December 7, 2024. They argue that the closure will severely impact their livelihoods, particularly in the current challenging economic climate.
The rejection comes after Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, the running mate for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), raised the suggestion during a meeting with representatives of the market at the Kumasi Culture Centre.
In a statement on December 3, the concerned traders dismissed the proposal, stating that they saw no justification for such a move.
Despite this initial rejection, the traders claim that the Kumasi Mayor, Samuel Pyne, has instructed the market management to enforce the closure on election day.
Speaking to Orange FM’s Fatawu Bayaga, Kwame Nkrumah Arthur, an executive member of the Kejetia Traders Association, said the association is urging authorities to reconsider the planned closure.
Mr. Arthur disclosed ongoing discussions about the situation, expressing concerns over its impact. He revealed that during a meeting with association’s executives, they emphasized their opposition to the closure, citing economic hardships.
He further stated that the closure, even for a single day, would greatly affect traders’ livelihoods. “We are much concerned about the traders,” he emphasized.
Addressing allegations of political motives, he denied any partisan agenda. He questioned, “Which kind of political points are we trying to score here? We have no such political interests. We are just concerned about the people trading at the market and looking at the economic reality of the country.”
He further stressed their focus on the traders’ welfare, adding that the association prioritizes ensuring traders can operate without disruption.
“Every day is important to them,” he said, calling for authorities to reconsider.
He confirmed ongoing engagements and expressed optimism their concerns would be addressed.
