Amnesty International Ghana has sharply criticized Kumasi Mayor Richard Ofori Agyemang Boadi for issuing what it described as reckless and undemocratic threats against pavement traders in the city.
At a press conference on April 14, the Mayor warned that his men would be dispatched to forcibly remove traders from Kumasi’s central business district, describing his approach as “military-democratic.” The remarks, delivered ahead of their coverage on Joy FM’s Newsnite, have ignited a strong response from the rights group.
Samuel Nyantakyi, a spokesperson for Amnesty International Ghana, decried the Mayor’s comments as highly irresponsible and illegal. He argued that the threat to “unleash men to flog traders” not only violates human rights but also contradicts democratic governance. Nyantakyi emphasized that these informal traders are not criminals but rather victims of long-term neglect and poor urban planning. He contended that while maintaining city order is necessary, enforcement should be humane and lawful, stressing that solutions should center on dialogue, proper relocation plans, and the protection of the livelihoods of informal workers.
Critics note that such threats, coming at a time when systemic issues like urban planning deficiencies have long plagued street trading, only serve to exacerbate tensions. The controversy underscores the challenge of balancing enforcement with respect for individual dignity and economic survival.
Past experiences have shown that coercive measures often backfire, undermining trust in public institutions and hindering meaningful solutions. The demand for an immediate retraction from the Mayor reflects a broader call for accountability and a shift towards strategies that engage affected communities rather than intimidate them.
In the wake of these comments, observers emphasize that the plight of pavement traders remains symptomatic of deeper urban management issues.
A more considered approach by authorities, one that prioritizes inclusive solutions over forceful measures, could pave the way for lasting improvements in both public order and economic opportunity. The unfolding situation serves as a reminder that democratic societies must resolve conflicts through dialogue and legal processes rather than through threats or violence.
