A former Chief Executive of Obuasi Municipal Assembly, Ofori Agyemang Boadi, is touting his experience in local governance to restore the image of Kumasi if appointed as Municipal Chief Executive (MCE).

To many in the Ashanti region, the NDC stalwart is a frontrunner among the eight persons who have shown interest in the position, following his previous experience in Obuasi.

In the race are Mary Nsiah Asare, former District Chief Executive (DCE) for Atwima Nwabiagya, Henry Osei Akoto, former National Democratic Congress Parliamentary candidate for Oforikrom Constituency, Nana Asare Bediako and Joseph Amo.

Others are Martin Asamoah Atuahene, Francisca Adu Mensah and Quarcu Boateng Dadson.

But the former Obuasi MCE is fast gaining popularity among the party faithful in the Ashanti Region.

At the vetting of the candidates in Kumasi, Mr. Boadi popularly known as King Zuba, attracted the support of many party members and others who gathered on the premises to witness the process.

After his vetting, the candidate was raised shoulder-high by supporters who tipped him highly for the position.

In an interview with JoyNews, Mr. Boadi said he will ensure the glory of the city is restored if successful.

"The status of Kumasi is above what we are witnessing today, I would like to restore the Garden City to its original status; the city must work again," he said.

The role of chieftaincy in appointments

Though the traditional authority has never shown public support for any appointee, it is believed the political parties always seek the nod for key nominees in the Ashanti region.

Due to the respect for culture and tradition, persons appointed for key roles in the region are expected to have respect for the authority.

Over the years, Mr. Ofori Agyemang Boadi has played key roles in visits by the National Democratic Congress to the Manhyia Palace.

He has often served as the party's spokesperson for delegations to the Palace.

For that reason, many believe there will be synergy between the candidate and the traditional authority if appointed.

Kumasi's challenges

The slow pace of development in the Kumasi Metropolis remains a worry to indigenes of the Ashanti region.

Aside from delays in the completion of developmental projects, the Central Business District continues to struggle with filth and congestion.

Successive metropolitan chief executives have failed to deal with poor handling of refuse at the CBD and other trade hubs.

Though various strategies were adopted by past administrators, the investment is yet to be reflected in the city.

Congestion at Adum and other areas of the CBD will be a huge task for Mr. Sam Pyne's successor.

A gradual decongestion of vehicles operating within the congested areas failed after tricycles were banned from the CBD.

Traders continue to take over pavements and streets, limiting space for pedestrians to go about their activities.

The second phase of the Kejetia Market has also progressed slowly despite assurances to be completed in time.

The task ahead

Regardless of who wins the race as Mayor of Kumasi, the expectations of the people remain high in demand for development.

Kofi Adams, a TV installer and an NDC member, is hoping for a strong individual with the will to implement all laws to instill sanity in Kumasi.

"Until a strong character takes the lead, Kumasi may not see the development being sought," he observed.