Tamale, Sept. 16, GNA - Some development projects in the Gushiegu District have been halted due to the recent political violence between supporters of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC). Some of the projects include classroom blocks, teachers' quarters, public toilets and construction of market stalls in some communities that the district assembly is funding.

Mr. Abukari Mahama, Gushiegu District Chief Executive, told the GNA in Tamale on Tuesday that part of the money meant for the projects was being used to maintain the security of the area. He said the district's contingency fund was inadequate to maintain security hence the need to halt the projects to concentrate in ensuring law and order.

Mr Mahama said the monies would be replaced as soon as the contingency fund for the district arrives and gave the assurance the projects would be completed since they were budgeted for. He has, however, appealed to the people to soften their stance and give peace a chance to ensure that the development projects are completed to enhance the living standards of the people. Mr Mahama denied accusations about his involvement in the disturbances that took place in Gushiegu and called on who ever had information about the role he played not to fear but should volunteer to inform security personnel. He said at the time the burning and killings took place at Gushiegu he was at the Yendi Divisional Police Command to call for reinforcement.

Mr Mahama said he was disappointed that some people had aligned him to the conflict when he was playing a mediating role as a DCE to ensure peace during the emerging confusion. He expressed the hope that calm would return to the district for business activities to resume and appealed to all in the district to embrace peace for the development of the place.