Sunyani (B/A) Feb. 4 GNA- The Brong-Ahafo Regional House of Chiefs at the weekend congratulated President John Agyekum Kufuor on his election as the Chairman of the African Union at the eighth Ordinary Session of the Union in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

A statement, signed by Okatakyie Agyeman Kudom IV, President of the House and Omanhene of Nkoranza Traditional Area, noted that the President Kufuor's elevation was the first such continental role for a Ghanaian leader since the country's first President Kwame Nkrumah was elected Chairman of the then Organisation of African Unity in 1965. General J. A Ankrah, Chairman of the National Liberation Council, that overthrew Nkrumah in 1966, assumed that role.

The statement said the House believed that it was President Kufuor's immense diplomatic skills, negotiating abilities and political pedigree to tackle the flashpoints on the African continent" that had enhanced his election to the high office.

It said, "We are optimistic that with the confidence your peers have reposed in you, you will not relent in your efforts". 04 Feb. 07