Tafo clashes: I understand frustration of residents - Minister

The Ashanti Regional Minister Mr. John Alexander Ackon says he commensurate with the frustration of residents of Old Tafo a suburb of the Kumasi Metropolis following the renewal of the curfew imposed on the area.

Residents especially business owners are complaining that the imposition of the curfew is affecting their sales and if care is not taken they could be pushed out of business.

They indicate that the security measure is also affecting religious activities racing into Easter where a number of Churches organize vigils to usher in the Easter festivities observing that calm has returned and appeal to authorities to lift the curfew.

But Speaking on the Ultimate Breakfast Show hosted by Prince Minkah, the minister disclosed that he understands their frustration but there are a few issues that need to be resolved with the traditional authorities before the curfew could be lifted.

He fell short to mention the specific issues to be resolved, but observed that the security situation in the area had improved reiterating the need for residents to allow for total peace before the curfew could be lifted.

“They should give us some little time. The Curfew will be lifted when the security on ground complete its work and is certain peace has returned to Old Tafo. I can understand their upbeat but I want them to bear with us as we are yet to get to the final hurdle of the situation”, he said.

Until the curfew is lifted, he revealed that armed police and military personnel will till continue to patrol the area and warned that persons caught flouting the curfew hours will face the full rigors of the law.

The Ashanti Regional Security Council (REGSEC) in consultation with the Ministry of Interior imposed a dusk to dawn curfew in the area following violent clashes between traditional authorities and irate youth over the construction of a fence wall at the Tafo Cemetery