Mayor of the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) Richard Ofori Agyemang Boadi has defended his strict rules for city development amid criticism from some members of his own party, stating that his decisions are guided by what residents want.
Speaking on Ezra Radio, Mayor Boadi explained that while some have complained about his work in the region, clarifications have helped set the record straight. Addressing concerns about the selective decongestion exercise, he said the initiative targeted the main streets to remove hawkers and traders, ensuring free movement, reducing accidents, and protecting long-term business interests. “I do the decongestion where it is supposed to be done. You do not have to sell on the main road; the asphalt is not for hawking,” he emphasised.
Mayor Boadi also highlighted the challenges of governance compared to campaigning in opposition, noting that it is easier to win support when criticising others than when delivering results. “In opposition, you campaign by pointing out the faults of those in power. But when you are the one governing, people judge your actual performance before deciding to vote for you,” he explained.
Looking ahead to the 2028 elections, Mayor Boadi said his campaign would focus on the improvements at Adum, where easing road congestion has already started to transform business activities. “Road congestion slows down business, which reduces profits, limits expansion, and ultimately increases unemployment. My decongestion exercise reverses this cycle, allowing traffic to flow freely, boosting business, increasing profits, encouraging expansion, and creating more jobs for the people,” he explained.
