NETRIGHT Demands Dismissal of Kumasi Mayor Over ‘Flogging’ Remarks

The Network for Women’s Rights in Ghana (NETRIGHT) has issued a strong statement condemning the Kumasi Mayor, Richard Ofori Agyemang Boadi, for threatening to flog traders who defy a directive banning street trading on pavements in the city.

At a press conference on April 14, the Mayor gave a two-week ultimatum to traders to vacate the central business district pavements or face sanctions, including flogging.

NETRIGHT, in a statement dated April 16, described the Mayor’s remarks as “barbaric,” “a gross violation of human rights,” and “an affront to human dignity and democratic values.” The women’s rights organization warned that such language, especially from a public official, has no place in a democratic society governed by the 1992 Constitution.

“Section 15 (2a) of the Constitution clearly states that no person, whether arrested or not, shall be subjected to torture, cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment,” – the statement read.

The group emphasized that women, who make up a significant proportion of traders in Ghana, would disproportionately suffer the consequences of such punitive threats. They further warned that these actions could incite civil unrest and undermine the rule of law.

NETRIGHT also expressed deep concern over the Mayor’s initial refusal to apologize for his remarks, and instead reaffirming them in a national media interview. 

However, in a new twist, the embattled Mayor has since rendered an apology during an internal on Atinka 104.7 FM’s morning show, adding “I withdraw my statement”. 

Despite the apology, NETRIGHT is calling on President John Dramani Mahama to remove Mr. Boadi from office, stating, “The statement made by the Kumasi Mayor shows that he is not fit to hold public office.”

The group has urged all Ghanaians to join their call for accountability and reject what they term “a dangerous abuse of power.”

“We cannot accept this barbaric statement! Not now, not ever!”- the statement concluded.