The Mayor of the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA), Samuel Pyne, has dismissed allegations that the New Kejetia Market will be closed on Saturday, December 7, to compel traders to participate in the general elections.

The claims, reportedly circulated by some aggrieved traders at the market, alleged that the Mayor had ordered the closure following a request from the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) running mate, Dr. Mathew Opoku Prempeh, during a meeting with queen mothers in Kumasi.

Speaking to Channel One News, Mayor Samuel Pyne categorically denied the allegations, labelling them as baseless and false. He clarified that his office has not issued any directive to close the market on election day.

The Mayor further revealed that intelligence gathered suggests some members of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) may be plotting to disrupt activities at the market on election day.

Mayor Pyne urged traders and the public to disregard the false reports and remain calm as the authorities work to ensure a peaceful election.

“Regarding the New Kejetia Market, the Assembly, Regional Security Council (REGSEC), and Municipal Security Council have not taken any decision to close down that facility because of elections.

“REGSEC, Municipal Security Council, we met Tuesday, and Wednesday and took a decision that all installations within the region be protected during the elections. We have not taken any decision to close down any of the markets within the Kumasi metropolis and across the region on election day.

“It was one National Democratic Congress (NDC) surrogate who wrote a false letter just to distract attention, some of these things need to be reported to the police because it causes fear and panic. I will officially report the matter to the regional police command for action to be taken. What we are doing is to protect all installations.”