Traders at the Accra Mallam Market have threatened to boycott the 2024 general elections in protest of the neglect and lack of support from the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP).
The traders, who are predominantly small-scale entrepreneurs and artisans, claim that they have been abandoned by the government and are struggling to survive due to high taxes, inadequate infrastructure, and lack of access to credit facilities.
Speaking to Happyghana.com the women claimed that whenever it’s rained the market place becomes slippery which makes its difficult for customers to patronise them and the worst thing is that some customers even fall because of how muddy and slippery the place becomes.
In their protest through a demonstration this morning, the market women said if politicians don’t pay heed to their call, they will not allow any politician to campaign in the market.
“We have been loyal supporters of the NPP, but they have turned a deaf ear to our plight,” said the leader of the traders, Alhaji Mohammed. “We are tired of empty promises and neglect. If they don’t address our concerns, we will not participate in the 2024 elections.”
The traders are demanding better conditions, including reduced taxes, improved infrastructure, and access to credit facilities.
They also want the government to address the issue of high rent and utility bills, which they say are crippling their businesses.