Pragya riders hit streets over alleged harassment and extortion by KMA

Commercial tricycle operators, popularly known as Pragya riders, on Thursday staged a massive protest in Kumasi over what they describe as persistent harassment, extortion, and unjust restrictions imposed by the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA).

Hundreds of riders poured onto the streets of the Ashanti Regional capital on November 20, abandoning their tricycles and blocking other operators from working—forcing many to join the demonstration. They marched through major streets, holding placards and chanting for urgent government intervention.

The protest, dubbed “Enough is Enough,” was triggered by what the riders say are crippling measures by the KMA that threaten their livelihoods.

About two years ago, the Assembly enforced a directive banning tricycle operations within parts of the Central Business District (CBD), a move it said was necessary to ease congestion and restore order. Although the riders initially complied after negotiations with city authorities, they now argue that congestion remains unchanged, insisting they were not the cause of the traffic situation.

They further accused the KMA of failing to honour earlier commitments made during engagements, claiming they continue to be unfairly targeted.

Beyond the restrictions, the riders alleged widespread harassment and extortion by some KMA city guards and police personnel. According to them, officers often demand money or seize tricycles without justification.

Regional Chairman of the National Union of Tricycle Operators, Seidu Mubarak, said their repeated appeals to authorities have been ignored despite several meetings.

The riders later submitted a petition to the KMA and the Ashanti Regional Minister, detailing their grievances and demanding immediate intervention. They have given authorities a two-week ultimatum to address their concerns or face further, intensified demonstrations.