From King Amoah Our Ashanti regional Chief Correspondent.
In a stirring declaration of intent, traders from the bustling Kumasi Central Market have voiced their collective disappointment in the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), pledging to channel their votes towards former President John Dramani Mahama in the upcoming elections.
This bold statement, made by Maame Akosua Akyaa, the revered leader of the market traders, resonates with many who feel overlooked and marginalized by the current government’s policies and approach to market-related issues.
The NPP, which swept to power on a campaign promising significant improvements for small businesses and traders, appears to have fallen short of its commitments concerning the operational needs of the Kumasi Central Market.
From inadequate infrastructure to a lack of essential resources, the traders have faced a myriad of challenges that they feel have been disregarded by the government.
Many traders report that their voices have been stifled when they sought assistance or raised concerns regarding their working conditions.
“Over the years, we have been left in the dark,” Maame Akosua Akyaa expressed to our reporter.
“We believed in the promises made by the NPP, but we see now that those were just words. Our demands for better facilities, security, and support have been met with indifference.
“We can no longer be fooled.”
The shift in allegiance to Mahama signifies a profound political awakening among the traders, who are tired of empty promises.
Under Mahama’s previous administration, the traders recall feeling more supported, with initiatives aimed at enhancing market conditions and providing necessary resources.
The nostalgia of those times seems to weigh heavy on the hearts of the traders, leading them to believe that Mahama might reconfirm his commitment to their welfare and the economic vitality of their marketplace.
Kumasi Central Market is not just a commercial hub; it represents the livelihoods of thousands. The traders insist that their economic stability is crucial for the local economy, yet they feel the NPP has failed them during crucial times.
Many traders are sharing personal stories of hardship, struggling with rising costs that they attribute to government policies they deem unfavorable.
Amid this discontent, traders are mobilizing for a concerted effort to unseat the ruling party. They are organizing meetings, discussions, and campaigns that aim to galvanize their fellow traders and community members to actively participate in the upcoming elections. The message is clear: an empowered trader community can lead to substantial political change.
“The winds of change are blowing. We are ready to stand up for our rights and our businesses,” Maame Akosua declared with fervor. “Our vote is our voice, and we will use it to say enough is enough. We stand with John Mahama, and we believe he will listen to us.”
In the coming weeks and months, as campaigning intensifies, the Kumasi Central Market traders will play a pivotal role in shaping the political landscape. Their decision reflects broader sentiments shared across the nation, where many citizens are calling for accountability and responsive governance..
