Akyem Oda, May 04, GNA - Oseadeeyo Frimpong Manso IV, the Omanhene of the Akyem Kotoku Traditional Area, has called on his people to put the past behind them and to unite towards speedy development of the area. He said since there could be no development without peace there was the need for all to come together to build a united and prosperous traditional area.

Oseadeeyo Frimpong Manso was speaking to the GNA after addressing a traditional council meeting at Akyem Oda following his admission into the Eastern Regional House of Chiefs. The Omanhene, a medical doctor, was installed 12 years ago but could not chair traditional council meetings or take his place in the Regional House following litigation.

He pledged himself to the cause of peace and unity and promised to tak= e his rightful place among the chiefs of the Regional House as well as the National House and contribute his efforts to raise the image of chiefs. Oseadeeyo Frimpong Manso appealed to all Kotoku chiefs not to sit on the fence and said he would need their wisdom, experiences and leadership. He said 93Despite our politics we are one people with the same aspirations for peace and prosperity."

"We all aspire to live in peace, educate our children and build prosperity for ourselves and our families".

The chief said using traditional practices of communal participation he would encourage communities to build their own institutions to create the much needed sense of ownership of what they would build together. He said education was the only path out of poverty and those who were not fortunate to receive education would be encouraged to have skill training.