The Mayor of the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA), Samuel Pyne, has refuted claims that the New Kejetia Market will be closed on Saturday, December 7, to force traders to participate in the general elections.
The allegations, reportedly spread by some disgruntled traders, suggested that Mayor Pyne had ordered the closure after a request from the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) running mate, Dr. Mathew Opoku Prempeh, during a meeting with queen mothers in Kumasi.
Mayor Pyne strongly denied the accusations, calling them unfounded and false. He clarified that no such directive to close the market had been issued by his office.
Additionally, the Mayor shared that intelligence reports indicated some members of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) might be planning to disrupt market activities on election day.
He urged traders and the public to ignore the false rumors and stay calm as authorities work to ensure a smooth and peaceful election.
On the matter of the Kejetia Market, Mayor Pyne emphasized, “Neither the Assembly, the Regional Security Council (REGSEC), nor the Municipal Security Council has made any decision to close the market because of the elections.”
He further explained that after meetings on Tuesday and Wednesday, it was decided that all installations in the region would be protected during the election period. “There has been no decision to close any markets in Kumasi or the region on election day.”
Pyne also accused a member of the NDC of writing a false letter to stir up confusion. “Such acts cause unnecessary fear and panic,” he said, adding that the matter would be reported to the regional police for further action. The Mayor reiterated that the focus is on ensuring the protection of all installations during the elections.
