Bolgatanga, Jan. 1, GNA - Mr. Asiedu Nketia, National Democratic Congress (NDC) General Secretary, has pledged to facilitate the establishment of NDC heroes' fund to take care of people who have suffered for the party's sake, if he retains his position. He expressed worry that NDC members who suffered, sustained injuries and lost their properties whilst working for the party have not been taken care of.

Mr. Nketia was speaking to NDC delegates from 13 constituencies in the Upper East Region, at the launch of his campaign to retain his position as General Secretary of the party, at Bolgatanga. The NDC General Secretary said he would tackle NDC problem of office accommodation, especially at the national, regional and constituency levels. Mr Nketia said through his own efforts land has been acquired for the building of an ultra-modern office for the party. He said that when he assumed office as NDC General Secretary, the party owed 24,000 dollars rent at the national office. Mr Nketia called for the empowerment of women and youth wings of the party to enable them to help NDC win Election 2012 and said the 31st December Women's Movement should be separated from the women's wing of the party.

The NDC General Secretary said that he would ensure discipline and adherence to the party's constitution to promote internal democracy. Mr. Cletus Avoka, Minister for the Interior, urged the delegates to vote for selfless, courageous, dedicated team players and experienced persons. He cited Mr. Nketia who he said continued to work for NDC after Election 2008 and has refused appointment to enviable positions like ambassador and high commissioner. Mr Avoka said the problems of NDC foot soldiers would be solved after the party's congress, scheduled for January 16 and 17 2010 in Tamale, adding that jobs would be created for them under the National Youth Employment Programme.

He said people would be recruited into the Police, Military, Fire Service, Prisons Service, Custom, Excise and Preventive Services and Immigration Service. He indicated that those employed in the security services and had the necessary qualifications and demonstrated hard work would be recruited permanently into the Services.