Axim (W/R), Aug. 16, GNA - The Government would consider upgrading Axim to a Municipality.

President John Agyekum Kufuor, who announced this on Monday, said this would be made in line with the significant role Axim had played in the social, political and economic development of the country. He was addressing a durbar of the Chiefs and people in the Nzema East District at Axim, in the Western Region.

President Kufuor is on a five-day official visit to the Region. He said the necessary negotiation would be made with the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development to enable Axim to have its fair share of resources for development.

President Kufuor commended Paramount Chiefs in the Western Region for the peace treaty they signed at the weekend.

He said the gesture would unite the people for peace and development.

On the elections, President Kufuor said citizenship was the only qualification for voting and urged all eligible voters to exercise their franchise in peace.

Awulae Attibrukusu III, Omanhene of Lower Axim, commended the Government for its efforts to develop the Region as well as the provision of employable skills for 170 boys and girls in vocational institutions in the District.

He appealed to the Government to rehabilitate roads in Axim and improve fishing facilities and sanitation. President Kufuor addressed similar durbars at Esiama and Aiyinase, all in the District.