The Mayor of Kumasi and Ashanti Regional Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Richard Ofori Agyemang, popularly known as Zuba, has opened up about the financial struggles he endured during his party’s eight years in opposition — and the lifeline extended by his in-laws during that difficult period.
“My Mother-in-Law Took Care of Me” — Zuba Shares Personal Struggles
Speaking in a candid interview on Radio, Zuba revealed that much of his survival during the opposition years was thanks to his in-laws’ unwavering support.
“The truth of the matter is that, for the eight years I was in opposition, most of the time it was my mother-in-law who was taking care of me,” he confessed.
He further disclosed that even the car he currently uses was a gift from his in-laws.
“Even the car I brought here was bought for me by my in-law. I’m very lucky to have access to the resources of my in-laws,” he added, highlighting the often unseen sacrifices political figures make while in opposition.
Denies Involvement in Illegal Excavator Removal
Meanwhile, Zuba has found himself at the center of a growing controversy surrounding the attempted removal of seized excavators from the custody of the Ashanti Regional Forestry Commission.
On April 29, 2025, five heavy-duty excavators—confiscated as part of ongoing prosecutions against illegal mining (galamsey)—were reportedly taken by individuals claiming to act under “orders from above.” The machines, marked as court exhibits, were swiftly returned after public backlash.
It later emerged that the Kumasi Mayor had been implicated in the attempted operation.
“I Didn’t Know They Were Court Exhibits” — Mayor Explains
In an interview with JoyNews, monitored by GhanaWeb, Ofori Agyemang denied any wrongdoing, stating that he had no knowledge that the excavators were tied to ongoing court cases.
He explained that his intention was to use the machinery for a planned demolition exercise at the Kejetia Market aimed at public safety.
“I was unaware the excavators were court exhibits. Once I became aware of their legal status, I ordered their immediate return,” he clarified.
Responds to Civil Society Criticism
Facing criticism from Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), including public safety advocate Ken Ashigbey, Zuba insisted that his actions were motivated by good intentions, not malice.
“I had good intentions to save lives, but my actions are being misconstrued, putting my name in a bad light,” he said.
“I know public service comes with such challenges, but please, Mr. Ken Ashigbey, I had no intention to misbehave. It was for a good purpose.”
Public Service Under Scrutiny
The incident has reignited public scrutiny over the management of seized galamsey equipment and raised broader concerns about political interference in the enforcement of anti-illegal mining laws. While the mayor has sought to clear his name, watchdog groups are calling for independent investigations to uphold accountability and transparency.