Abass Nurudeen, the Director of Communications for the NDC in the Ashanti Region, has refuted claims that the daily trading fee paid by traders has been increased from 2 cedis to 5 cedis.
In a statement, he categorically stated that no such increment has been approved by the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA).
“Our attention has been drawn to misleading announcements being made at the Dr. Mensah and Zuria FM enclaves of the Kumasi Central Market, claiming that the daily trading fee paid by traders has been increased from 2 cedis to 5 cedis, effective Monday, 3rd February 2025”.
Abass Nurudeen
According to Nurudeen, thorough checks with the Metropolitan Coordinating Director and the Finance Officer have confirmed that the official daily trading fee remains unchanged at 2 cedis.
He emphasized that any reports suggesting otherwise are misleading and should be disregarded.
Nurudeen urged the public, especially traders, to rely on official sources for accurate information and not be swayed by misinformation intended to create unnecessary panic and confusion.
The statement further urged traders at the Kumasi Central Market to adhere strictly to the officially approved daily trading fee of 2 cedis, emphasizing that no increment has been sanctioned by the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA).
It warned traders not to fall victim to misinformation or coercion that might lead them to pay unauthorized fees.
Any attempt by individuals or groups to demand higher amounts, the statement noted, should be reported to the appropriate authorities for immediate action.
Nurudeen also reassured traders that the KMA remains committed to fairness and transparency in market operations.
It also reiterated that measures would be put in place to prevent any unauthorized fee collection, ensuring that traders are not subjected to undue financial burden.
Traders Urged to Report Unauthorized Fee Collection
Furthermore, Abass Nurudeen called on the public to remain vigilant and report any individuals or groups attempting to impose the unauthorized 5-cedi daily trading fee.
He emphasized that such actions are illegal and must not be tolerated.
He urged traders and the general public to promptly report any incidents of extortion or unauthorized fee collection to the relevant authorities for swift intervention.
He assured that the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) would take decisive action against anyone found culpable, as part of efforts to protect traders from exploitation.
“The KMA remains committed to transparency and fairness in its dealings with traders and will not allow any unauthorized actions intended to create confusion and dissatisfaction”.
Abass Nurudeen
Nurudeen further reaffirmed the NDC Ashanti Region’s commitment to ensuring transparency and fairness in market operations.
He stressed that traders should only pay the officially approved fee of 2 cedis and disregard any contrary claims.
Accordingly, he advised traders and the general public to seek clarification directly from the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) if they have any doubts or concerns regarding the official daily trading fee.
He emphasized that the KMA remains the only authorized body to determine and communicate such fees, and any changes would be formally announced through the appropriate channels.
Traders are therefore encouraged to visit the KMA office or contact their representatives for accurate information to avoid falling victim to misinformation or exploitation.
Nurudeen assured that the KMA is committed ensuring a fair and well-regulated market environment.
Meanwhile, reports of the alleged increase in daily trading fees have become a source of concern for traders operating within the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly.
Given the current state of the country’s economy, many traders are already struggling with rising costs of doing business, making any perceived fee hikes particularly alarming.
Their worries have been further compounded by ongoing allegations that trading spaces within the markets are being sold to individuals, potentially disadvantaging existing traders.
These concerns have heightened tensions among market vendors, who fear that such practices could make it even more difficult for them to sustain their businesses.
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