Accra, March 2, GNA - Dr. Yao Graham, Coordinator of Third World Network, on Monday said free expression and freedom of association were constitutional rights that needed to be encouraged. "Diversity in belief is a constitutional right and it demonstrates how glowing our constitution is," he added. Speaking at the launch of the Rastafari Council, Ghana, Dr Graham lauded the contribution of Rasta to the socio-political development of Ghana in particular and Africa in general. It had many important strides to progressive causes such as politics, society and culture, he said.

Mr. Kwesi Pratt Jnr., Managing Editor, The Insight newspaper, noted that the need to change the African situation required that all shades of beliefs came together to build a better continent. Mr Ahuma Bosco Ocansey, President of the Council, said it would work hard to articulate the views of members for both government and identifiable bodies to support the Council. "The Council will also contribute its quota to national development," he said.