The recent fire at the Suame Post Office Market has reignited concerns about safety in Ashanti Region markets, with New Patriotic Party lawmakers calling for urgent reforms to address what they describe as a recurring disaster.
More than 300 shops were destroyed in last week’s blaze, displacing thousands of traders and wiping out livelihoods. While expressions of sympathy have poured in, the Ashanti NPP Parliamentary Caucus insists the time for condolences is over. In a statement issued on Wednesday, August 27, the caucus accused authorities of repeating empty assurances without solutions.
The MPs outlined three urgent measures: a full-scale investigation into the Suame fire with findings made public, emergency relief and compensation for affected traders, and the installation of modern fire safety systems in markets, including hydrants, cameras, and dedicated fire stations. They further urged government to develop a clear national policy on market fires, stressing that traders deserve protection, not repeated promises. Caucus secretary Vincent Ekow Assafuah ended the statement with a stern warning: “Enough is enough. It is time for decisive action.”
