The Mayor of Accra, Michael Kpakpo Allotey, has announced a renewed crackdown on traders and hawkers operating at unauthorized locations within the Accra Metropolitan Area, stressing that the law will be strictly enforced to restore order and cleanliness in the city.
According to the Mayor, before the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government led by President John Dramani Mahama assumed office, there was little to no structured engagement with traders occupying unauthorized spaces. As a result, many traders came to believe that those locations were legitimately theirs.
Mr. Allotey explained that since the new administration took over, the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) has held extensive engagements with affected traders during its first year in office. He noted that the Assembly adopted a humane and tolerant approach, particularly during the Christmas festivities, allowing traders to operate to support their livelihoods during the busy season.
However, the Mayor made it clear that this grace period has come to an end. He disclosed that traders have been given up to the end of January 2026 to vacate all unauthorized trading spots. After this deadline, the AMA will begin a full-scale enforcement exercise to remove traders from the streets.
He emphasized that the upcoming operation will be firm and uncompromising, stating that no special concessions will be made. “The AMA operates 24 hours a day, and even during the Christmas period, our officers were on duty. This time, enforcement will be thorough to ensure that the streets are cleared and kept clean,” he said.
Mr. Allotey concluded by reaffirming the Assembly’s commitment to law enforcement, sanitation, and the overall orderly management of Accra, urging traders to comply voluntarily to avoid sanctions.
Story: Nyamebeye Kofi Ansah Sasraku