Some traders on the streets of the Ashanti regional capital Kumasi have vehemently resisted attempts to relocate them to satellite markets around the metropolis by city authorities.
The Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly in a move to decongest the city centre has asked traders selling on pavements around the Kejetia and Asafo lorry terminals to move to the Racecourse or the Abinkyi market.
On Tuesday morning, a task force was detailed to ensure compliance, but they were met with fierce resistance. According to the traders, the markets into which they are being asked to relocate, are already full with no space for them.
They also claim city authorities in times past failed to sustain the exercise leading to the takeover of their street spots by others traders who rake in more sales from buyers unwilling to visit the markets to shop.
The impasse comes barely a week after chaotic scenes were recorded at the Racecourse market as traders jostled for space following an order for them to relocate. City authorities had a tough time bringing the situation under control. Not even the assurance of Mayor Osei Asibey Antwi that everyone will be given a spot could calm nerves.
Kumasi street traders resist relocation
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