The Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) has launched a crackdown on unauthorised trading in the central business district, aiming to ease congestion ahead of Christmas. The operation, led by Technical Adviser to the Kumasi Mayor, Francis Dodovi, targeted the Bantema Central Market, Kejetia Market entrance, and surrounding areas.

KMA taskforces and military personnel drove hawkers off pavements, seizing goods and towing vehicles parked in unauthorised areas. Wooden structures on pavements were also demolished. Traders whose items were seized were made to sweep and clean the pavements.

During the operation, some Kejetia Market traders accused KMA of hypocrisy, claiming they had paid fees to trade at the market entrance.

They noted that previous governments allowed them to trade freely during Christmas, but the current administration was being strict.

"We paid money to KMA to allow us to trade here, but now they're chasing us away," said one trader.

"Previous governments allowed us to trade freely during Christmas, but this current administration is being too harsh."

Technical Advisor to the Kumasi Mayor,Francis Dodovi, explained that the exercise aimed to ensure free movement before, during, and after Christmas.

"This exercise is part of our efforts to ensure that Kumasi is congestion-free and also improve sanitation, discipline, and order in the city during the festive season", Francis Dodovi explained.

He insisted that the KMA task force will continue to enforce the law until traders understand that they must operate within designated areas.

He advised all traders to relocate to designated areas.

Mr Dodovi also denied allegations by some traders that KMA is collecting money from them to allow unauthorised trading.

"KMA has not authorised anyone to collect money from traders, and we will not tolerate any form of corruption," he said.