FOSDA condemns Kumasi Mayor’s threats against unauthorized traders

The Foundation for Security and Development in Africa (FOSDA) has condemned the recent threats of violence by Kumasi Mayor Richard Ofori-Agyemang Boadi against unauthorized traders in the Kumasi metropolis.

FOSDA urged the Mayor to retract his statements and adopt constructive measures to promote compliance with local rules and regulations.

The new Kumasi mayor, in his maiden press conference, warned that he will flog traders who will violate the pavement trading ban to serve as deterrents to others.

He noted that previous attempts to resolve the issue, including arrests and the confiscation of goods, have failed to deter traders from returning to prohibited areas.

The approach, according to the mayor, is part of the assembly’s plans to decongest the city, especially in the Central Business District (CBD), Adum.

 Concerns about the culture of violence

A press release signed by the Executive Director of FOSDA, Theodora Williams Anti, showed a concern that the Mayor’s rhetoric contributes to a troubling culture of violence in Ghana, particularly at a time when the country is grappling with increasing violence among students and unrest caused by political party supporters.

“The organization believes that such statements undermine the principles of dialogue and understanding,” the statement said.

Call for peaceful solutions

In the release, FOSDA called for solutions that promote peace, stability, and progress in communities and nations.

“The organization is advocating for alternative, constructive measures to address the issue of unauthorized traders, rather than resorting to threats of violence,” it stated.

Statistics on violence in the Ashanti Region

According to FOSDA’s media monitoring, the Ashanti Region has recorded nearly 300 cases of violence over the past three years.

“The organization is worried that the Mayor’s call for state-sponsored violence could embolden other duty bearers to adopt similar stances, leading to an increase in violent incidents and threatening Ghana’s reputation as a safe destination,” it emphasized.

Impact on Ghana’s reputation

FOSDA’s concerns about the impact of Mayor Boadi’s statements on Ghana’s reputation are valid, given the country’s commitment to promoting peace and stability.

“The organization’s call for peaceful solutions is a reminder of the importance of dialogue and understanding in addressing social issues,” the statement concluded.

Source: Ghana/otecfmghana.com/Francis Appiah