Kumasi Market Traders Raise Red Flag Over Bawumia Candidacy, Cite Samira Bawumia Over Alleged Demolition of NPP George Oti Bonsu’s Building

Hundreds of market traders and businessmen across Kumasi have raised serious concerns over the candidacy of Dr. Alhaji Mahamudu Bawumia for the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) flagbearership, citing allegations against his wife, Samira Bawumia, over the demolition of a building belonging to Mr. George Oti Bonsu, a native of the Ashanti Region and member of the NPP.

Representatives from major markets, including Suame, Bantama, Kejetia, Kronom, and Asawase, convened a press conference on Monday, January 26, 2026, to voice their grievances and warn the party of potential political repercussions should their concerns be ignored.

The traders and businessmen allege that Samira Bawumia, in her capacity as  Second Lady, oversaw the demolition of ten houses owned by Mr.George Oti Bonsu—actions they claim were carried out without due regard for party loyalty or fairness. They added that repeated appeals for the reconstruction of the affected properties have so far gone unanswered.

Mohammed Isaiah Ababio, convener of the traders and businessmen, told journalists that the incident has caused significant discontent among traders and businesspeople alike, many of whom are long-standing NPP supporters. “We believe she used her position as Second Lady to act against a party member. Anyone associated with such actions does not deserve to assume the role of former First Lady,” he said.

The traders and businessmen urged NPP delegates to carefully consider the character and conduct of candidates ahead of the party’s presidential primaries. Some went further, warning that they might abstain from voting in the 2028 general elections if Dr. Bawumia is elected, describing their stance as a protest against perceived injustice.

This development has added to rising political tension in the Ashanti Region, a traditional NPP stronghold, where grassroots sentiment is considered crucial to the party’s electoral success. Analysts note that dissatisfaction at this level could have significant implications for both internal party dynamics and national election outcomes.