By Michael Pepsin Avorgah
Aflao (V/R), June 04, GNA-The Aflao Youth Association has expressed strong displeasure over what it described as the failure of the Interior Minister Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak honour a scheduled visit to the Aflao Traditional Council during his recent working tour of the area.
The group, led by its Acting Chairman, Mr Mengistu Agorbia, in a press statement, said the Minister had officially communicated through protocol that his first point of call would be the Palace of Togbui Adzonugaga Amenya Fiti V, the Paramount Chief and President of the Aflao Traditional Council.
According to the statement, although the Paramount Chief was out of the country on an international assignment, chiefs and elders of the area had assembled at the palace from 1100 hours to receive the Minister, who was expected at noon.
It said the traditional authorities waited until about 1430 hours, only to be informed that the Minister had left Aflao without paying the anticipated courtesy call.
The Association described the development as a breach of protocol and a sign of disregard for traditional authority, noting that such engagements were essential in strengthening cooperation between the government and the local leadership.
The group also rejected recent remarks by the Minister regarding the existence of over 100 unapproved routes in the Volta Region, stating that such assertions risked creating negative perceptions about border communities.
The statement explained that many of the routes described as “unapproved” were long-standing pathways used by local communities for social and economic activities, predating the establishment of modern national borders.
It said the focus of authorities should be on regulating and formalising such routes where necessary, rather than portraying communities as complicit in unlawful activities.
The Association further highlighted concerns about security challenges within the border enclave, including incidents of robbery and harassment, which it said required urgent attention.
It noted that such conditions sometimes exposed residents and traders to exploitation by criminal elements.
The group called for greater engagement with traditional authorities and local stakeholders in addressing border-related issues, stressing the importance of dialogue and mutual respect.
It also urged public officials to exercise caution in their statements to avoid stigmatising communities and undermining public confidence.
The Aflao Youth Association reaffirmed its commitment to peace, national unity and cooperation with state institutions, while advocating respect for traditional leadership and the rights of citizens.
GNA
Edited by Maxwell Awumah/Benjamin Mensah