NPP MPs’ Kantamanto Market Visit Sparks Debate: Genuine Sympathy or Political Stunt?
Afenyo-Markin Leads Delegation to Fire Victims Amid Criticism
A group of New Patriotic Party (NPP) Members of Parliament, led by Alexander Afenyo-Markin, visited Kantamanto Market on April 15, 2025, distributing GH₵200,000 to traders affected by January’s devastating fire outbreak. While framed as a humanitarian gesture, critics have questioned the timing and motives behind the high-profile visit.
Political Theater or Compassionate Response?
The event drew mixed reactions, with some market traders expressing skepticism about the politicians’ intentions. “Where were these MPs when we were sleeping in the ashes for days?” one trader questioned, suggesting the visit was more about photo opportunities than meaningful support.
Afenyo-Markin, MP for Effutu, used the occasion to deliver a message of solidarity, stating that “the Minority Caucus stands with you.” However, observers noted the overtly partisan nature of the delegation, which included Minority Chief Whip Frank Annoh-Dompreh, MP Jerry Ahmed Shaib, and former MASLOC boss Afua Akoto.
Pattern of High-Profile Visits
The Kantamanto visit followed a similar GH₵200,000 donation to Kumasi’s Adum PZ Market fire victims, both events receiving extensive media coverage. Market leader Aikins Boakye Mensah acknowledged the support but emphasized that “the real help will come not from donations but from long-term solutions.”
In a potentially awkward moment, Afenyo-Markin called on President Mahama’s administration to accelerate reconstruction efforts, despite critics noting that successive governments, including previous NPP administrations, had failed to address the market’s longstanding issues.
Public Perception and Political Timing
With the visit occurring in the aftermath of the 2024 elections, political analysts suggest the NPP may be attempting to rebuild public trust. The carefully staged nature of the event, complete with what some described as orchestrated cheers, has fueled debate about whether this represents genuine concern or political posturing.
As GhanaNewsOnline reports, the question remains: Was this a sincere show of solidarity or merely another political performance designed for media consumption?
Source: GhanaNewsOnline