The Interior Minister and Member of Parliament for Asawase, Honourable Mohammed Mubarak Muntaka, has called on authorities and citizens to support strict enforcement of planning regulations to prevent recurring disasters across the country. He argued that effective spatial planning remains the responsibility of District Assemblies and requires cooperation from all levels of society.

Honourable Muntaka stated that even state institutions are required to secure the necessary approvals before undertaking construction projects. The Interior Minister noted that Parliament and government agencies are expected to obtain permits and fire certificates from the relevant authorities before development activities begin.

He further explained that weak enforcement of planning regulations has contributed to challenges facing communities, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall. According to the Interior Minister, District Assemblies must be firm in applying the law to ensure that development follows approved standards.

“Doing the right thing comes with a lot of insults and other things, but the majority will be with you. The whole thing is an attitudinal thing that start from every one of us.”
Honourable Mohammed Mubarak Muntaka

The Asawase MP said political pressure often affects decisions taken by public officials, especially when those decisions involve enforcing regulations that may inconvenience individuals. He stated that leaders who prioritise public safety should receive support from citizens instead of facing pressure over electoral considerations.

Supporting Enforcement And Protecting Communities

Addressing the role of local authorities, Honourable Muntaka explained that appointed Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives often face difficulties when they attempt to enforce regulations. He indicated that officials sometimes receive political backlash when they prevent unauthorised developments or protect public spaces.

Furthermore, the lawmaker pointed to previous demolition exercises carried out by public authorities, including actions involving regional administration, where officials faced resistance from affected persons. He said stronger public understanding of the importance of planning regulations would help officials carry out their responsibilities effectively.

The Interior Minister also highlighted the need to protect forest reserves and environmentally sensitive areas from unauthorised activities. He revealed that he had raised issues concerning the protection of reserves with the Minister responsible for Lands after observing activities affecting some protected areas.

For instance, Honourable Muntaka mentioned Achimota as an example of an important green area that provides environmental benefits to communities. He argued that allowing indiscriminate development in such areas could create long term challenges for cities and future generations.

In addition, the Asawase MP urged political leaders to focus on decisions that serve the national interest beyond electoral cycles. He said leaders sometimes lose public support when they avoid difficult decisions aimed at improving society.

He recalled his experience in Parliament since the administration of former President John Agyekum Kufuor, stating that political calculations have often influenced governance decisions. He encouraged public officials to prioritise responsible leadership and maintain commitment to lawful practices.

The Interior Minister further stressed that addressing issues such as flooding requires collective responsibility from government institutions, traditional authorities, politicians and citizens. He indicated that lasting solutions would emerge when enforcement agencies receive public backing.

He added that Ghana’s development depends on a change in attitude towards rules and regulations. Honourable Muntaka appealed for a national commitment to supporting policies that protect communities and promote orderly growth.

Moreover, the MP linked poor planning practices to challenges experienced in urban areas, where uncontrolled development affects drainage systems and increases vulnerability during heavy rains. He said preventive measures remain essential in protecting lives and property.

He also encouraged political actors to avoid interfering with lawful decisions taken by state institutions. He stressed that public officials should be allowed to perform their duties without unnecessary pressure.

The Interior Minister’s remarks formed part of discussions before Parliament’s Assurances Committee, where he addressed issues relating to governance, public safety and institutional responsibility. He emphasised that stronger cooperation among stakeholders would help Ghana address challenges linked to planning and development.

Consequently, the Minister indicated that the responsibility begins with individuals and extends to national institutions. He also urged citizens to support actions that protect communities even when such measures appear difficult in the short term.