Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, the running mate for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the upcoming 2024 general elections, has pledged support to the victims of the devastating Adum Bluelight fire incident in Kumasi’s Central Business District.
The fire, which broke out on Friday, March 21, 2025, destroyed significant parts of the market, leaving traders struggling to rebuild.
During a visit to the affected area on March 2, 2024, Dr. Opoku Prempeh expressed his solidarity with the victims, offering both financial and material aid to assist with reconstruction. His donation included GH₵50,000 and 500 bags of cement, alongside a commitment to provide an additional GH₵100,000 from his Common Fund as part of efforts to restore the market.
In his address to the traders, Dr. Opoku Prempeh emphasized the importance of unity among the market vendors as they work together to rebuild. He highlighted the collective responsibility of the community, stating, “I know this fire has hurt many of us, but the only way to rise again is by standing together as one. Let us not allow division to slow down our progress.”
The running mate further shared his personal connection to the tragedy, stating, “The pain you feel is my pain too. When one of us suffers, we all suffer. I pray that God comforts you all and helps us rebuild this market.”
Dr. Opoku Prempeh’s visit came in the wake of similar gestures from other political figures, including Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, NPP’s Kennedy Agyapong, and former President John Dramani Mahama, all of whom expressed their support for the fire victims in different ways.
Additionally, the Member of Parliament for Manhyia South, Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah, also donated 100 bags of cement to aid in the rebuilding efforts, demonstrating a collective effort from both local and national political figures.
The devastating fire has left many traders in distress, but the outpouring of support from political leaders offers hope that the market can be restored to its former vibrancy.
