Amnesty International Ghana has condemned the recent remarks by the Mayor of Kumasi, Richard Ofori Agyemang Boadi, describing them as irresponsible and undemocratic.
The Mayor, during a press conference on April 14, threatened to unleash his men on traders who sell on pavements within the central business district of Kumasi.
According to Amnesty International, the Mayor’s comments undermine the principles of rule of law and responsible leadership.
Speaking on Joy FM‘s Newsnite on April 15, the organisation stated that flogging traders is not an acceptable or lawful means of maintaining order and described the mayor’s so-called “military-democratic” approach as dangerous and a violation of human rights.
The human rights organisation insisted that, while selling on pavements is not ideal, the practice is largely a result of inadequate planning and political neglect.
He said that successive political regimes have failed to provide legitimate, safe alternatives for traders, forcing many of them onto the streets to earn a living.
Amnesty International called on the Mayor to retract his threats and instead focus on constructive solutions to address congestion in the city. It emphasized that enforcement must be carried out within the bounds of the law and respect for human dignity.
The organisation also noted that traders should be supported to conduct their business legitimately and without the fear of violence or intimidation.
Mr Nyantakyi reiterated that human rights protections apply to all citizens, including those in the informal sector.
Amnesty International stated that it would continue to monitor the situation closely and advocate for the safety, rights, and livelihoods of street traders and vulnerable groups in Kumasi.
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