The Chief Executive of the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA), Richard Ofori Boadi Agyeman, has told the Ashanti Central Police Command over what he describes as the ineffective handling of traffic congestion at the Kejetia-MTN Roundabout stretch.
In an interview with Kojo Marfo on Kumasi-based Abusua FM, monitored by Kumasi Mail, the Mayor expressed his frustration at the continued disorder in an area that is heavily manned by police officers assigned to manage traffic and ensure public order.
“I met with the Ashanti Central Police Commander and told him plainly either his officers execute the task they’ve been assigned or he should withdraw them entirely from the area,” King Zuba Boadi said.
“It is unacceptable that their presence has not improved the situation, and worse, there are allegations that some officers are collecting money from traders and drivers, thereby enabling illegal trading and contributing to vehicular congestion among others .”
According to the Mayor, the Kejetia Roundabout and its surrounding areas have become hotspots for traffic gridlock and unregulated street trading, despite the visible police presence.
“As Mayor, I owe it to Asanteman to create an environment that promotes lawful and organized trade. But if institutions that are supposed to support this vision are instead obstructing progress, then we must ask whether their presence is helping or hurting,” he added.
The statement comes ahead of a city-wide decongestion exercise scheduled for May 1, 2025, aimed at restoring order within the Central Business District of Kumasi.
The KMA has vowed to collaborate with only committed stakeholders as it intensifies efforts to reclaim the city’s major roads and trading spaces from encroachment and illegal activities.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
