Kumasi: Artisans protest alleged unlawful eviction at Magazine Zone 13
Hundreds of aggrieved artisans at Magazine Zone 13, located on Tafo New Road in Kumasi, have taken to the streets to protest what they describe as a forceful and unlawful eviction from the land on which they have operated for many years.
The peaceful demonstration drew a large crowd of mechanics, sprayers, welders, electricians, and other craftsmen, who chanted songs and waved placards to express their displeasure over the alleged attempt to remove them from their place of work.
According to the protesters, some private developers, allegedly backed by certain influential individuals, are making moves to take over their land without any form of engagement, compensation, or alternative arrangements.
The artisans expressed shock that after years of investment in building sheds, purchasing tools, and developing the area into a vibrant mechanical hub, they are now being asked to vacate without justification.
Speaking to the media on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, representatives of the artisans said the land has served as their source of livelihood for decades, supporting hundreds of families and apprentices across the Ashanti Region.
One of the spokespersons lamented that the eviction notice came without consultation, even though the artisans have always complied with community rules and paid their dues.
“We have been working here for many years, paying all our dues and contributing to the local economy. Now we are being told to leave without any proper discussion or compensation. This is unacceptable. We are not against development, but we deserve fairness and respect for our contribution to this community,” a sprayer said.
The artisans insist that any attempt to evict them without due process would not only destroy their livelihoods but also have ripple effects on the many families and small businesses that depend on their services.
They emphasized that they are not opposed to lawful development, but they want fairness, transparency, and justice in decisions that affect their future.
“We only want justice. We only want to be treated as human beings who have contributed to society. All we ask for is dialogue, fairness, and respect for the work we have done here over the years,” an electrician said.
In a passionate appeal, the protesters called on Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II and the Old Tafo Municipal Assembly to urgently intervene to prevent what they described as an injustice.
They expressed confidence in the Asantehene’s leadership and sense of fairness, saying they trust he will ensure justice prevails.
“We are pleading with Otumfuo Osei Tutu II and our MCE to come to our aid. Otumfuo has always stood for truth and justice, and we know he will not allow his hardworking subjects to suffer this kind of injustice,” they added.
Source: Ghana/otecfmghana.com/Francis Appiah
