Traders at Kumasi's Kejetia Market have voiced their opposition to a proposed closure of the market on December 7, 2024, the day of Ghana’s general election. The traders, who rely heavily on daily operations to sustain their livelihoods, argue that such a move would worsen their financial struggles, especially amid an already challenging economic environment.
The proposal to shut down the market was initially raised by Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, the running mate for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), during a meeting with representatives of the market at the Kumasi Culture Centre. The traders, represented by the Kumasi Kejetia Queen Mothers Association, immediately dismissed the suggestion, stating that there was no valid reason to enforce a market closure on election day.
Despite their rejection, reports indicate that Kumasi Mayor Samuel Pyne has directed the market's management to implement the closure, leaving traders worried about its potential impact on their businesses and income.
The traders argue that closing the market on December 7 would be particularly detrimental, as the preceding day, Friday, December 6, is a public holiday. For many of them, this would result in a two-day halt in operations, further straining their ability to make ends meet.
### Traders Speak Out
In a strongly worded statement issued on December 3, 2024, the Kumasi Kejetia Queen Mothers Association expressed their frustration and vowed to resist any attempts to shut down the market.
The statement read, “We, the Kumasi Kejetia Queen Mothers Association, strongly oppose the planned closure of the Kejetia market on election day, December 7, 2024. This decision follows a request from Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh during a meeting with us at the Kumasi Culture Centre, which we vehemently rejected.”
The traders emphasized the importance of keeping the market open, especially given the dire economic circumstances many of them are facing. They also called on market management to reconsider the directive and prioritize the welfare of traders over any political or administrative agendas.
“We urge the market management to reconsider this decision, considering its detrimental effects on our businesses, especially given the current economic situation and the fact that Friday, December 6, 2024, is a holiday. As the Market Queen Mothers, we stand against this decision and will fiercely resist any attempt to shut down the market,” the statement added.
### Economic and Social Implications
For many traders, the Kejetia Market serves as their primary source of income. A closure on election day, compounded by the public holiday on December 6, would mean significant financial losses. Traders expressed concerns about their ability to meet daily expenses and cater to their families if the closure goes ahead.
“It is already hard enough to make ends meet,” said a vendor at the market. “Shutting down the market for two days will make things even worse for us. We need to work, and the elections should not stop us from earning our daily bread.”
The association further noted that the closure could set a dangerous precedent, as markets are vital spaces for commerce and community engagement in Ghana. They warned against politicizing economic activities, stressing that traders should be allowed to operate without undue interference.
### Calls for Dialogue and Resolution
The traders have urged city authorities to engage in dialogue with market stakeholders to resolve the issue amicably. They emphasized that any decision affecting the market should be made in consultation with those directly impacted.
“We call on the market management to prioritize the welfare of traders and rescind the decision,” the Queen Mothers Association stated. “We are willing to engage in discussions to find a solution that works for everyone, but we will not accept decisions that threaten our livelihoods.”
### Broader Context
The controversy surrounding the proposed closure of Kejetia Market highlights the challenges faced by Ghanaian traders during the election period. Markets across the country are often bustling hubs of activity, and disruptions to their operations can have far-reaching consequences for local economies.
While the intention behind the proposed closure may be to ensure a smooth electoral process, traders argue that it should not come at the expense of their livelihoods. They called on authorities to strike a balance between maintaining public order and allowing economic activities to continue uninterrupted.
As the December 7 elections draw closer, it remains to be seen whether the concerns raised by the traders will be addressed. For now, the Kumasi Kejetia Queen Mothers Association remains resolute in their opposition to the market closure, vowing to defend their right to work and earn a living.
The unfolding situation at Kejetia Market underscores the need for inclusive decision-making processes that take into account the perspectives of all stakeholders. Traders and authorities alike must work together to find a solution that supports both economic stability and the democratic process.
This issue serves as a reminder of the complex interplay between politics and daily life in Ghana, as citizens navigate the challenges of election season while striving to secure their livelihoods.
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