Kumasi Mayor Backtracks on Threat to Flog Traders, Vows to Stick to Traditional Methods
The Mayor of the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA), Richard Ofori Agyemang Boadi, has backtracked on his comments about using corporal punishment against traders who defy the ban on pavement trading.
In response to widespread backlash, including criticism from members of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Boadi clarified that he is committed to being a servant leader and has no intentions of manhandling or mistreating his people.
Speaking at a press conference on Monday, April 14, 2025, King Zuba, as he is popularly known, acknowledged that the level of filth in Kumasi calls for urgent action but emphasized the need for discipline without resorting to physical punishment.
Mr. Boadi had previously announced plans for a decongestion exercise, setting a two-week deadline for traders to vacate pavements and roadsides, warning that those who resisted would face severe consequences, including flogging.
This led to widespread condemnation from both the public and political figures.
However, during an appearance on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen show, the Mayor clarified that he no longer intended to use corporal punishment. He said, “I wish we won’t get to that extent because when I went round on Tuesday, some people have started moving.”
Boadi explained that traditional methods, such as confiscating goods and arrests, have not been effective, but reiterated his commitment to using the police, court summons, and confiscation to address the situation.
“I won’t lash anybody again. If I get hold of anyone, I will hand them to the police and arraign them before court, but when the filth engulfs the city, everybody must know that I didn’t get the needed support,” he added.
The Mayor reaffirmed his long-term goal to transform Kumasi into a clean, business-friendly city that attracts investment, emphasizing that a well-organized urban environment is key to realizing that vision.
About the author
POLICE ARREST 10 SUSPECTS FOR ILLEGAL MINING ALONG THE ABOI FOREST NEAR SAMREBOI
The Ghana Police Service in a special intelligence operation conducted yesterday, 18th April, 2025 arrested 10 suspects for illegal mining activities in the Aboi forest, near Samreboi in the Western region.Eleven (11) escavators and one (1) bulldozer which were found at the site, have been impounded and efforts are underway to get them removed from the forest into safe custody.In a similar operation on 17th April, 2025, the Police team arrested 29 suspects including 21 Ghanaians and 8 Chinese in the Subri forest and along the Tano river. Six (6) escavators, Four (4) motorbikes, Two (2) Toyota Hilux vehicles and One (1) Rav4 vehicle found at the site were impounded. Other exhibits including Four (4) pump action guns, One (1) single barrel gun, 54 live BB cartridges and Eight (8) pumping machines were also recovered.All the suspects are in custody […]
Ghana National Fire Service intensifies measures to curb market fires
According to the Divisional Officer II and Public Relations Officer of the GNFS, Desmond Ackah the Service is collaborating with market authorities to strengthen fire safety, particularly in areas with wooden infrastructure, which are more susceptible to fire outbreaks. In an interview on JoyNews on Friday, DO II Ackah highlighted the need for modern fire prevention measures, including the installation of early warning systems and the construction of adequate escape routes to ease evacuation in the event of a fire. He noted that congestion in many markets significantly hampers emergency response efforts. One of the persistent challenges facing the GNFS, he added, is limited access to water due to an insufficient number of fire hydrants—a responsibility managed by the Ghana Water Company. “We are in discussions with Ghana Water to ensure the provision of more hydrants,” he said.He mentioned that […]
Vice President Opoku-Agyemang calls for unity, compassion in Easter message
As Christians in Ghana and around the world commemorate the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang urged citizens to reflect on the values of empathy, inclusivity and national cohesion "As Christians across Ghana and the world mark the celebration of Easter, I extend my warmest wishes to everybody," she said. “May this season reawaken in us the conviction to build a kinder, fairer nation—one that listens, uplifts, and holds space for every voice,” she said. “I wish all Ghanaians a meaningful and peaceful Easter.” This message marks the Vice President’s second public communication since her recent medical treatment at the University of Ghana Medical Centre (UGMC), followed by a period of recovery in the United Kingdom.Last week, Minister for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, assured the public that the Vice President was in good health and had been […]
Minority urges traditional, religious leaders to stop President Mahama from removing Chief Justice
According to the Minority, the petitions submitted in support of the Chief Justice's removal are without merit and do not satisfy the constitutional criteria required for such action. Speaking at a press briefing on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, the Minority’s Legal Counsel and MP for Suame, John Darko, indicated that credible sources have confirmed the petitions lack substance. He emphasized the need for respected national figures to help preserve the integrity of the judiciary by discouraging any undue political interference. The caucus described the current steps being taken as a “blatant usurpation of judicial authority by the President,” warning that the process threatens the independence of the judiciary and democratic governance We are aware of plans for the invocation of article 146 (10) a to suspend the CJ and to appoint certain persons who are know sympathisers of the current […]
Ghana Water urges affected residents to report supply issues directly
The Regional Communications Manager of Ghana Water Limited (GWL) in Accra East, Nana Yaw Barima Barnie, is urging residents experiencing water supply challenges to report directly to the nearest GWL office for swift intervention. Speaking on Channel One TV on Friday, April 18, Mr. Barnie emphasized the need for stronger community collaboration in addressing ongoing water supply concerns, particularly in parts of the Greater Accra Region. His remarks follow recent reports highlighting growing frustrations over inconsistent water flow in several communities. Mr. Barnie reassured the public that GWL remains committed to resolving issues promptly but stressed the importance of official complaints to trigger support. “We encourage our customers—if their water is not flowing—to visit our offices. There is always a nearby office where they can lodge complaints, and once we receive the report, we’ll follow up and assist them in […]
Westec Security marks 30 years with new vision
Westec Security Systems Ghana Limited, a private security company has celebrated its 30th anniversary with a grand event, reflecting on three decades of resilience, growth, and transformative impact. The event which took place at the company’s headquarters annex at Ridge, Accra, was attended by staff, partners, and dignitaries. In the week-long activities to mark the milestone, the company organised a health screening exercise for residents of Asylum Down as part of its corporate social responsibility. Hundreds of community members were screened. Staff of the company also observed cultural heritage days, wearing Made-in-Ghana clothes as part of the celebration. Founded in 1994 by Nana Kwame Sarpong I, Westec was born out of a mission to tackle unemployment while providing top-tier security solutions. CEO Esther Boakye, addressing staff and partners at the event, painted a vivid picture of the founder’s determination and the company’s […]
Related
POLICE ARREST 10 SUSPECTS FOR ILLEGAL MINING ALONG THE ABOI FOREST NEAR SAMREBOI
The Ghana Police Service in a special intelligence operation conducted yesterday, 18th April, 2025 arrested 10 suspects for illegal mining activities in the Aboi forest, near Samreboi in the Western region.Eleven (11) escavators and one (1) bulldozer which were found at the site, have been impounded and efforts are underway to get them removed from the forest into safe custody.In a similar operation on 17th April, 2025, the Police team arrested 29 suspects including 21 Ghanaians and 8 Chinese in the Subri forest and along the Tano river. Six (6) escavators, Four (4) motorbikes, Two (2) Toyota Hilux vehicles and One (1) Rav4 vehicle found at the site were impounded. Other exhibits including Four (4) pump action guns, One (1) single barrel gun, 54 live BB cartridges and Eight (8) pumping machines were also recovered.All the suspects are in custody […]
Ghana National Fire Service intensifies measures to curb market fires
According to the Divisional Officer II and Public Relations Officer of the GNFS, Desmond Ackah the Service is collaborating with market authorities to strengthen fire safety, particularly in areas with wooden infrastructure, which are more susceptible to fire outbreaks. In an interview on JoyNews on Friday, DO II Ackah highlighted the need for modern fire prevention measures, including the installation of early warning systems and the construction of adequate escape routes to ease evacuation in the event of a fire. He noted that congestion in many markets significantly hampers emergency response efforts. One of the persistent challenges facing the GNFS, he added, is limited access to water due to an insufficient number of fire hydrants—a responsibility managed by the Ghana Water Company. “We are in discussions with Ghana Water to ensure the provision of more hydrants,” he said.He mentioned that […]
Vice President Opoku-Agyemang calls for unity, compassion in Easter message
As Christians in Ghana and around the world commemorate the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang urged citizens to reflect on the values of empathy, inclusivity and national cohesion "As Christians across Ghana and the world mark the celebration of Easter, I extend my warmest wishes to everybody," she said. “May this season reawaken in us the conviction to build a kinder, fairer nation—one that listens, uplifts, and holds space for every voice,” she said. “I wish all Ghanaians a meaningful and peaceful Easter.” This message marks the Vice President’s second public communication since her recent medical treatment at the University of Ghana Medical Centre (UGMC), followed by a period of recovery in the United Kingdom.Last week, Minister for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, assured the public that the Vice President was in good health and had been […]
Constitution Review Committee receives over 500 proposals from stakeholders
The Constitution Review Committee (CRC), composed of legal and governance experts, is tasked with identifying critical sections of Ghana’s Constitution that require revision to align with the nation’s current democratic and socio-economic realities. As part of its mandate, the CRC is reviewing past recommendations, assessing necessary reforms, and outlining a clear roadmap for implementing effective constitutional amendments.According to Dr. Rainer Akumperigya, the Committee has received written submissions from a broad spectrum of stakeholders. These include notable institutions such as the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), former officials of the Electoral Commission, and various NGOs and Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), including the Africa Centre for Energy Policy, with expertise in natural resource governance.From academia, distinguished scholars such as Professors Kwame Gyan, Kofi Quashiga, and Kwadwo Appiagyei-Atua of the University of Ghana have also contributed proposals to support the review process. […]
Blossom Academy receives support to train Ghanaian youth in Data Analytics
Blossom Academy, a leading force in digital education, has received a major boost through a grant from the Internet Society Foundation under its Strengthening Communities, Improving Lives and Livelihoods (SCILLS) programme. This funding will enhance the Academy’s Data Analytics Programme, designed to empower 150 underemployed youth—50% of whom are women—with globally competitive digital skills, paving the way for meaningful careers in the tech industry. Jeph Acheampong, Director of Blossom Academy, emphasized the wider impact of this initiative, stating, “With the support of the Internet Society Foundation, we’re not just transforming individual lives; we’re shaping Ghana’s digital future.” He noted that beyond upskilling, the programme contributes significantly to economic development by equipping graduates to support and grow institutions and businesses nationwide. The Internet Society Foundation commended Blossom Academy for its innovative, inclusive, and impact-driven approach—particularly its adaptive learning model, focus on […]
Military Officers Remanded After Alleged Beating Deaths in Kumasi
Seven military officers and one civilian employee were remanded into custody following the deaths of two men in Kumasi. The incident unfolded after the victims were allegedly arrested by the soldiers on suspicion of stealing an iPhone. The victims, later identified as Kwame Adu and Kwabena Sarfo, were detained, severely beaten, and dumped in a bush in the Danyame area.The police launched an investigation after a missing person's report led them to discover the bodies at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH). A surviving victim, Christian Obiri Yeboah, gave a statement claiming the victims were tortured at the 4BN barracks before being left to die.The suspects admit to the arrests but deny any assault, and the police investigation continues with the cooperation of the military. The suspects are set to appear in court again on April 22, 2025.
Be the first to leave a comment