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
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 […]
10 people feared dead, others injured in accident on Tamale-Buipe highway
Ten people are feared dead, and several others injured, following a fatal accident involving a Tamale-Kumasi bound VVIP bus with registration number AP 24-21 at Alipe, a community along the Tamale-Buipe Highway in the Savannah Region. Police at the scene confirmed that the injured were rescued and transported to nearby medical facilities for treatment, while personnel from the Ghana National Fire Service were awaited to tow the bus and assist in retrieving those trapped beneath it. Some survivors who spoke to JoyNews recounted that the bus had departed Tamale around 7:32 am on Thursday, amid heavy rains, en route to Kumasi. Upon reaching Alipe, the driver reportedly attempted to overtake a second vehicle but veered off the road, causing the crash. “We were fifteen missionaries in the bus going to Kumasi. The rains started just as we left Tamale. Our […]
Trump administration looking at closing nearly 30 overseas embassies
The proposed changes come amid a broader expected overhaul of the US’ diplomatic agency as the Trump administration, spurred by the Elon Musk-backed Department of Government Efficiency makes dramatic efforts to shrink the federal government. It is unclear whether Secretary of State Marco Rubio has signed off on the proposed closures. The document recommends closing 10 embassies and 17 consulates. Many of the posts are in Europe and Africa, though they also include ones in Asia and the Caribbean. They include embassies in Malta, Luxembourg, Lesotho, the Republic of Congo, the Central African Republic and South Sudan. The list also includes five consulates in France, two in Germany, two in Bosnia and Herzegovina, one in the United Kingdom, one in South Africa and one in South Korea. State Department Spokesperson Tammy Bruce would not comment on the internal document or […]
Key suspect who allegedly pushed Gabon player to death identified and questioned
The football world is mourning the tragic loss of Gabonese international striker Aaron Boupendza, who died at the age of 28 after falling from the 11th floor of a building in China. Boupendza was playing for Zhejiang FC at the time of his untimely death. Authorities have launched an investigation to determine whether the fall was accidental, suicidal, or the result of foul play. Boupendza had a prolific career, playing for clubs across France, Turkey, Qatar, the United States, Romania, and China. He was the top scorer in the Turkish Super Lig during the 2020/21 season with Hatayspor and had stints with Bordeaux, CF Mounana, and FC Cincinnati in MLS. Internationally, he earned 35 caps for Gabon, scoring eight goals. The Gabonese Football Federation (FEGAFOOT) and President Brice Oligui Nguema have expressed their condolences, highlighting Boupendza's contributions to Gabonese […]
NPP declares post-election report confidential, moves to amend constitution after 2024 defeat
Richard Ahiagbah, the party’s Director of Communications, stated on Wednesday, April 16, that the document, compiled by the 12-member committee chaired by former Speaker of Parliament, Professor Mike Oquaye, is strictly for internal party use. “I don’t think so. It is an internal document that will be used to aid the party’s reform process and help position us for victory in 2028,” Ahiagbah told reporters following a National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting in Accra. He added, “So I can guarantee you, even though it is not expressly stated, it is clearly implied that the document is not meant for public consumption.” Despite the strict confidentiality surrounding the report, Ahiagbah assured party faithful that relevant insights would be shared in a manner that preserves the integrity of the document. “There’s a way, our supporters will go about it that will not […]
Related
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.
Woman Jailed for Stealing Over GH¢221,000 in Lotto Sales
A 38-year-old manageress, Akua Darkoah Asamoah, has been sentenced to five years in prison by the Asante Abuakwa Circuit Court for stealing GH¢221,937.75 from lotto sales at the Atwima-Techiman branch of FOE Lotto Limited. Asamoah pleaded guilty to the charge of stealing and was convicted on her own plea.The theft took place between March 22 and June 2, 2024, when Asamoah failed to remit the proceeds from lotto sales received from sub-agents to the head office in Kumasi. A forensic audit revealed that after the winning numbers were drawn, Asamoah forged lotto tickets, falsely indicating winnings to cover up the theft.Asamoah was arrested after the company filed a complaint with the police. She admitted to the theft in her caution statement and is now serving her sentence. The case highlights the importance of transparency and accountability in financial management within […]
GAF Investigates Alleged Assault by Soldiers in Kumasi
The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) is currently investigating an alleged assault involving seven military personnel in Kumasi on March 28, 2025. According to a statement from the Military High Command, the incident occurred when three officers and four soldiers arrested and allegedly assaulted three civilians who were accused of stealing a mobile phone.The civilians reportedly sustained injuries during the altercation, prompting a joint investigation by the Military Police and the Ashanti Regional Police Criminal Investigations Department (CID). The soldiers and officers involved in the incident have been placed under close arrest as the inquiry progresses.The military high command assured the public that anyone found guilty will face legal consequences, emphasizing its commitment to discipline and accountability. The statement called for calm during the investigation and urged the families of the victims to remain patient while the due process takes its […]
Ministers Step In to Address Water Shortage at KATH
Doctors at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) in Kumasi have been forced to cancel new surgical procedures due to a severe water shortage. In response, Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akamdoh and Ashanti Regional Minister Dr. Frank Amokohene have stepped in to coordinate efforts to supply more water tankers to the hospital.For over a week, KATH has been relying on limited water supply from the fire service, private tankers, and its own reserves after the Ghana Water Company Limited cut off service due to operational issues. However, these sources have proven insufficient for the facility, which serves over 12,000 people, including staff, patients, and medical students.The hospital’s Trauma and Orthopedic Directorate had no choice but to suspend all new surgical cases until the crisis is resolved. In a statement, KATH’s management confirmed that government officials are now actively working on […]
Be the first to leave a comment