Regional News of Friday, 16 March 2012

Source: GNA

Cape Coast Inter-party dialogue committee inaugurated

Ghanaians have been asked to put aside their political differences, and come together to ensure peaceful and successful elections in December.

Mr. Alex Sackey, Cape Coast Metropolitan Director of the National Committee for Civic Education (NCCE), made the call at the inauguration of a 22-member Inter-Party Dialogue Committee, set up by the NCCE in Cape Coast, to ensure peaceful polls in December.

The Committee is made up representatives from the various political parties in the country, religious and traditional councils, the police, Electoral Commission (EC), NCCE and the media.

Mr. Sackey noted that the role of the media was crucial in maintaining peace, and advised radio hosts to effectively regulate discussions on their platforms to avoid disputes.

Mr. Samuel Atta Mensah, the Presiding Member for Cape Coast Metropolitan Assembly, who inaugurated the Committee, lauded the NCCE for setting up the body.

He said it was a good step in ensuring peaceful and successful elections and a smooth political transition.

Mr Mensah advised members of the Committee to put aside their political affiliations, unite and play their respective roles effectively.

He asked Ghanaians not to take the peace and stability in the country for granted, and cautioned them not allow their political differences to destroy the nation.

Ms. Modesta Annie Sapaty, Deputy Central Regional Director of the NCCE, called on members of the Committee to be truthful and honest in the discharge of their duties.

Mr. Anthony Nyame, the Cape Coast Metropolitan Director of the EC, educated participants on the impending biometric voter registration

He said the biometric voter registration was among others, aimed at eliminating multiple registrations and the generation of an accurate and reliable register.

Mr Nyame asked Ghanaians, 18 years and above and of sound mind to turn up in their numbers to register to enable them vote in the December polls.**