Winneba(CR), Aug. 8, GNA - Reverend Stephen K. Asante, President of Ghana Baptist Convention on Thursday appealed to Government to ensure Election 2008 was conducted in a free and fair atmosphere to sustain the prevailing peace and tranquillity in the country.

He pointed out that the prevailing peace should not be taken for granted.

Rev. Asante made the appeal when addressing the opening session of the 45th Annual meeting of Ghana Baptist Convention at Winneba. About 3,000 delegates from branches of the church nation-wide are attending the five-day meeting under the theme "The Ghanaian Baptist in a Changing Society".

Rev. Asante urged Christians to pray for peaceful election and champion the cause of peace in the society, because future generations would "not forgive us if we fail to be creative and innovative to be agents of change".

He commended Government for establishing the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) and introduction of free health care delivery for pregnant women.

Mr Christian Tetteh Sottie, Controller and Accountant-General, urged Christians to avoid being involved in violence before, during and after the December 7 elections.

He appealed to the delegates to educate the electorate and members of the church to exercise their franchise during Election 2008. Mr Robert Ekow Andrews Ghunney, Effutu Municipal Chief Executive advised the delegates to educate their members especially the youth to refrain from acts that might create confusion during the elections. He stressed the need for mutual understanding between the church and State to ensure peace, stability and development. Mr Ghunney commended churches for their contribution to the establishment of schools, hospitals and development in the country.