The Concerned Traders Association of Mankessim has passionately appealed to the Nkusukum Traditional Council to forgive traders involved in events surrounding the sod-cutting ceremony for the proposed Mfantseman Ultra-Modern 24-Hour Economy Market and to spare “innocent” Member of Parliament for Mfantseman, Hon. Dr. Prince Ebenezer Kojo Arhin, from any sanctions arising from the incident.
The appeal was made during a press conference held in Mankessim on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, where leaders of the traders’ association sought reconciliation and understanding from traditional authorities following controversy that emerged before the market project’s launch ceremony.
Addressing journalists, President of the Concerned Traders Association, Madam Agness Moore, expressed regret over the incident that occurred during celebrations to mark the commencement of the market project, stating that the traders have since been emotionally and mentally affected by the experience.
According to her, the spreading of white scented powder by the traders was purely a spontaneous act of jubilation and excitement over the commencement of a project many believe will transform trading activities in Mankessim and the wider Mfantseman Municipality.
Madam Moore emphasized that the gesture was not intended to disrespect the Nkusukum Traditional Council or any traditional customs and was not orchestrated by the Mfantseman legislator.
She clarified that Hon. Dr. Prince Ebenezer Kojo Arhin neither participated in nor endorsed the act but became caught up in the controversy that followed.
“The Member of Parliament was not part of the celebration involving the white scented powder. He neither directed nor encouraged the act. Unfortunately, he has been affected by circumstances beyond his control,” Madam Moore stated.
The traders’ leader also reiterated concerns previously raised by market women regarding aspects of the redevelopment project.
According to her, many traders had opposed proposals by the Municipal Assembly to demolish sections of the existing market to make way for new lockable stores, arguing that the planned facility may not adequately accommodate the growing number of traders operating within the Mankessim Market.
“We strongly opposed plans by the Municipal Assembly to demolish portions of the current market because we believe the proposed structure may not sufficiently accommodate the existing trader population. Our concerns were based on protecting the livelihoods of traders and ensuring no one is displaced,” she explained.
Despite these concerns, she stressed that traders remain committed to supporting development initiatives that will improve infrastructure and economic opportunities within the municipality.
In an emotional appeal, Madam Moore called on the Nkusukum Traditional Council to exercise forgiveness and compassion toward the traders involved.
She acknowledged the authority and importance of the traditional institution and expressed hope that the longstanding relationship between the council and the trading community would not be damaged by the incident.
“We humbly plead with the Nkusukum Traditional Council to forgive us. We are your wives, brothers, sisters, children, and family members. Whatever happened was not intended to disrespect our revered traditional authority. We ask for your understanding and forgiveness,” she appealed.
Chairman of the Concerned Traders Association, Mr. Benjamin Blay, also appealed to the Nkusukum Traditional Council to refrain from imposing sanctions on Hon. Dr. Prince Ebenezer Kojo Arhin.
According to him, the Member of Parliament should not be held accountable for actions undertaken independently by traders during the celebrations.
Mr. Blay urged traditional authorities to separate the actions of traders from the role played by the MP, who has been a strong advocate for development projects within the constituency.
“We respectfully appeal to the Nkusukum Traditional Council not to ban or sanction the Mfantseman MP, Hon. Dr. Kojo Arhin because of actions undertaken by traders during the celebration. He was not responsible for what occurred, and we believe it would be unfair to hold him accountable,” Mr. Blay stated.
Significance of the Mfantseman Ultra-Modern 24-Hour Economy Market
The proposed Mfantseman Ultra-Modern 24-Hour Economy Market is expected to become one of the flagship development projects in the municipality, aimed at boosting commerce, creating employment opportunities, and supporting Ghana’s broader 24-hour economy agenda.
The market is expected to provide modern trading facilities, improve business operations, and attract increased economic activity to Mankessim and surrounding communities.
Supporters of the project believe it will significantly enhance local economic growth and improve the working environment for traders. However, concerns regarding market capacity, trader accommodation, and implementation plans continue to generate discussion among stakeholders.
Calls for Dialogue and Unity
As tensions surrounding the incident continue to attract public attention, the Concerned Traders Association has called for dialogue, reconciliation, and mutual respect among all stakeholders.
The traders expressed confidence that through constructive engagement, the Nkusukum Traditional Council, local authorities, traders, and the Member of Parliament can work together to ensure the successful execution of the market project while preserving peace and unity within the municipality.
The association further emphasized that development efforts should be pursued in a manner that respects traditional authority, protects traders’ interests, and strengthens cooperation among all parties involved in the transformation of the Mfantseman economy.
