The bustling Asawase market in the Asawase Constituency in the Ashanti Region, known for its vibrant atmosphere and variety of goods, has been hit hard by rising costs, leaving traders grappling with the challenges of maintaining their businesses.

Speaking on Channel One TV's Community Forum on Tuesday, December 3m traders shared their frustrations and called on political leaders to address the high cost of doing business as the country gears up for elections.

While calling for peace during the election period, they also emphasise the need for immediate and long-term solutions to support the livelihoods of traders and revitalise the market's economy.

Amina Ibrahim, a veteran fruit seller, painted a grim picture of the struggles faced by market traders. "We want peace as we prepare to go and vote, but I want to bring to the attention of our leaders that the prices of our wares, especially the fruits, have gone up exponentially.