Kumasi, April 14, GNA - Reverend Otuo Acheampong, Chairperson of the Asante Presbytery of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana, has cited bad leadership as the main factor that had contributed to the country's slow pace of development over the years in spite of Ghana's rich natural and human resources. "In many places, taking bribes and kick-backs as a result of one's position in government, nepotism, favouritism and misappropriation of public funds are seen", he noted. The clergyman indicated that, it behoved on the nation's leaders to endeavour to always provide selfless leadership and strive to be accountable to the people to enable the nation realize her development goals.

Rev. Acheampong was speaking at the 86th Asante Presbytery Conference of the church in Kumasi at the weekend under the theme "Let Us Go On To Maturity". He observed that Ghana had come a long way in sustaining its democratic dispensation, which required tolerance to divergent views on the part of party activists, supporters and political leaders. Rev Acheampong urged them to shun insults, lies and vandalism when they mounted political platforms. He advised Christians to always abide by the biblical principles in their various field of endeavours. Reverend Peter Kofi Nyarkoh, Minister in-charge of the Bantama Presbyterian Church, expressed the hope that the members would take advantage of the conference to reflect on the achievements and challenges of the church and chart a new course to enhance the church's membership.