The Minority Caucus in Parliament is turning up the pressure on the government to release emergency funds to support victims of the recent Adum Blue Light Market fire, following the group’s own donation of GHS 200,000 to affected traders.
At a brief but emotional ceremony in Kumasi, Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin not only presented the relief package but also issued a passionate appeal to the government to act swiftly, suggesting the use of the Contingency Fund to provide immediate and structured support.
“This is not the time for bureaucracy. Just as we’ve seen in previous national disasters, the state must respond with urgency and empathy,” Afenyo-Markin said.
The devastating blaze destroyed dozens of shops and livelihoods at the bustling Kumasi market, leaving many traders in despair. The Minority’s donation was met with deep appreciation from the community.
Market traders’ chairman, Mr. Joseph Bobie Ansah, received the funds on behalf of the victims and expressed profound gratitude for the Minority’s solidarity. “This show of support gives us hope and proves we are not alone in this,” he said.
The gesture has sparked renewed calls for a national emergency response framework that ensures timely intervention and compensation in the aftermath of market fires and similar disasters, which have become increasingly common.
With political and community leaders now aligned in their demands, all eyes are on the government for a concrete response.
