Ashanti Region Artisans at Suame Magazine face eviction

More than 10,000 artisans at Suame Magazine Zone 13 in Kumasi, Ashanti Region, are grappling with the  threat of eviction after receiving notices from a private developer, ‘The Gosie Group,’ claiming ownership of the land.

The artisans, who have been operating in the area for decades, are pushing back against the eviction, citing Executive Instrument (E.I. 36), which safeguards their right to work there.

Despite The Gosie Group’s acquisition of the land from the Lands Commission, the artisans argue that the land falls under the executive instrument, granted to them by the government and chiefs.

They assert that any eviction would require an amendment to this instrument.

Seeking government and traditional leaders’ intervention, Eric Arhin, chairman of Suame Magazine Zone 13, urged authorities to intercede to allow them to continue their livelihoods.

The artisans’ plight has raised concerns about their economic well-being. Many threatened to vote against the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the upcoming December elections if the government fails to intervene, stating that eviction would devastate their livelihoods.

Addressing the situation, Eric Arhin called upon the government and the Asantehene, the traditional ruler of the Ashanti Kingdom, to step in and prevent the eviction, emphasizing the need for support to sustain their work.

In response to the unrest, Kwabena Nsenkyire, a spare parts dealer and NPP member, visited the area to reassure the artisans, assuring them that the government was working towards a resolution.

He appealed to Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia to engage with the artisans directly to address their grievances.