The Volta Regional Minister, James Gunu, has commended the government for restoring inland security checkpoints in the Volta Region to what he describes as their intended purpose, saying the move represents a significant step toward strengthening public trust, protecting citizens’ dignity, and promoting equal treatment under the law.
In a statement issued on Monday, the Minister said the decision had revived an important national discussion on citizenship, governance, and the relationship between state institutions and the people they serve.
According to him, while checkpoints remain an important component of national security and border management, concerns have been raised over the years about how some checkpoint operations were conducted in the Volta Region.
Mr Gunu noted that many residents viewed certain security practices implemented during the previous administration as excessive and, in some instances, intimidating. He said what were intended to be routine security measures often left some citizens feeling unfairly scrutinised while travelling within the region and across its boundaries.
He stated that complaints frequently centred on repeated questioning, prolonged inspections, and demands for proof of identity. According to him, some travellers also reported being assessed based on factors such as language, appearance, or manner of dressing rather than official identification documents.
The Minister stressed that Ghana’s national identity is founded on diversity and inclusiveness, adding that citizenship should never be determined by ethnic background, language, accent, or cultural practices.
“No Ghanaian should feel compelled to conform to a particular cultural stereotype to be recognised as belonging,” he stated.
He further expressed concern over reports that some travellers were required to leave their vehicles and walk through checkpoint barriers, describing such experiences as particularly difficult for elderly persons, pregnant women, persons living with disabilities, and families travelling with young children.
Hon. Gunu maintained that effective security operations must balance public safety with respect for human dignity and constitutional rights.
He said the government’s decision to restore the checkpoints to their original security function provides an opportunity to rebuild confidence between citizens and state institutions while ensuring that security measures are carried out professionally and fairly.
The Minister also urged security personnel stationed at various checkpoints to support the implementation of the policy through professionalism, courtesy, and respect for human rights.
According to him, the conduct of officers on the ground will play a crucial role in determining whether citizens experience the benefits of the reforms being introduced.
Hon. Gunu praised President John Dramani Mahama and the Minister for the Interior, Hon. Mohammed Muntaka Mubarak, for what he described as their commitment to ensuring that security operations are conducted in a manner that respects the rights and freedoms of citizens.
He stated that the government’s approach reflects principles of fairness, inclusion, and democratic governance.
The Minister called for a Ghana where all citizens, regardless of their region, ethnicity, religion, or political affiliation, are treated equally before the law and accorded the dignity and respect they deserve.
He said the restoration of the inland checkpoints to their original purpose is not only an administrative measure but also a reaffirmation of the constitutional principle that all Ghanaians are equal and entitled to justice, fairness, and protection under the law.
By: Daniel Orlando/newsalertgh.com
