Traders at the bustling Bantama Market in Kumasi have voiced their staunch opposition to the candidacy of former President John Dramani Mahama in the upcoming elections.

They declared their unwavering support for the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy, attributing their improved circumstances to the NPP government.

In interviews with reporters, the traders, many of whom claim to be beneficiaries of the Free SHS policy, expressed their dissatisfaction with the NDC's past performance, particularly under Mahama's leadership. They cited a period of hardship and suffering during Mahama's presidency and emphasised that they are determined to protect the positive changes brought about by the current government.

"We saw hell under Mahama," stated one plantain seller, who identified herself only as Dede. "Thanks to the NPP, I was able to get my child into Achimota School for free. We can't afford to go back to those days."

Echoing this sentiment, Joyce Frema, another trader, asserted, "We need to protect the good works of this government, especially the Free SHS. We must say no to any politician who wants to dismantle this program."

Several traders expressed their appreciation for the NPP's efforts to improve education and their belief that the party is best positioned to continue the progress they have made. They recalled the positive impact of the Kufuor administration and expressed fear that a return to NDC leadership would reverse the gains they have seen.

A corn dough seller, Abaawa Sarah, described the upcoming election as a "contest between light and darkness." She emphasised the importance of safeguarding the positive changes brought about by the current government and rejecting what she perceived as the darkness of the NDC.

Ante Ama, a visibly upset trader who spoke to journalists during a press interaction, said she can't fathom why someone like John Dramani Mahama would have the guts to contest an election in Ghana again, adding that his ideas are finished. "We want free education for our children and not chicks. We are serious Ghanaians who know what is good for us," she said.

Another trader, who only identified herself as Mrs Ayisi, said, "Under the erstwhile John Dramani Mahama's leadership, we sold our clothes before our children could attend secondary schools. By the kind courtesy of President Akuffo Addo and his Free SHS, three of my children have benefited, and some of them are going to tertiary institutions. We can't afford to forgo this good governance for hardship. I want to remind all parents and guardians that this Free SHS policy has really given us capital, especially if you have benefited. We need to vote for Bawumia to protect the Free SHS," she advised.

The traders' fervent support for the Free SHS policy and their rejection of Mahama's candidacy highlight the significant impact of the program on ordinary Ghanaians. Their voices serve as a reminder of the importance of political accountability and the influence of economic policies on everyday lives.