GUTA Prez Asks AMA Boss Not To Meddle In Their Affairs

Alfred Oko Vanderpuiye

The President of the Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA), George Ofori has strictly warned the Accra Mayor, Alfred Oko Vanderpuiye, not to meddle in the affairs of the Association. Speaking in an interview with Kwami Sefa Kayi, host of Peace FM's morning political analysis programme, Mr. George Ofori asked the Accra Mayor to leave GUTA authorities to execute their duties. According to him, it has come to the notice of the Association that the Accra Metropolitan Assembly task force has resorted to the use of mini vans assuring the striking traders of their safety. He explained that the task force has been roaming the areas where the traders have closed their shops and vociferously calling for them to resume work, hence promising them that the Assembly is ready to safeguard them. The Ghana Union of Traders Association, a couple of days ago, embarked on nationwide strike in protest against what the members described as "unfair and unjust" trade policies by the government. The members have closed their shops in the capital city and Kumasi for four days in hope for the right resolutions to be met by the government and other appropriate authorities. The strike, which begun from Tuesday, June 24 will end on Friday, June 27, 2014. Meanwhile, the Acting Director of Communications and Public Affairs from the Ministry of Trade and Industry, Nana Akrasi Sarpong addressing the issue in an interview on "Kokrokoo" on Peace FM noted that the Ministry has been negotiating with the authorities of GUTA to resolve the conflict. He expressed worry over any misunderstanding that has ensued between the Ministry and the Association resulting in the deadlock. But to Mr. Ofori, the Ministry has not acted fairly with the traders. He was however appalled by the 'interference' by the AMA to intervene in the situation. “We’re tired and have taken a leave...We find it so outrageous that they would do such a thing. “If the AMA really wants work to do; it should concentrate on the garbage situation in Accra which has submerged us and leave our life for us. For it’s a matter of business and survival; people are dying as a result of this. For how long will we sit unconcerned?” he queried.

Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana