Abutia (V/R), Sept. 10, GNA - The government and the largest opposition, National Democratic Congress (NDC) at the weekend underlined the importance of involving the youth in national development. Mr Osei Ameyaw, Deputy Minister of Tourism and Diasporan Relations and Mr John Dramani Mahama, NDC running mate to Professor John Atta Mills made the observation at Abutia in the Volta region. They acknowledged the fact that the youth have not been treated fairly by the earlier generation and excluded from decision making process.

They were speaking at a ceremony where Togbega Kodzo Gidi V, Fiaga of Abutia Traditional Area celebrated his 10th anniversary of destoolment as a chief. He was enstooled at the age of 20 years and had brought the divisions that had existed in the area to an end and leading to development.

Mr John Mahama who was the Guest Honour said the fact that Togbega Gidi was installed as a chief at the age of 20 years and had chalked successes in the years of his leadership, shows how when the youth were given a chance in leadership the country could achieve a lot. "I am always excited when I see enthusiastic youth on my campaign and I say to myself these are the future leadership whose youthful exuberance should be channelled into productive use," Mr Mahama said. Mr Osei-Ameyaw, who was the Guest Speaker, said the elderly had stifled the youth for far too long, thus undermining their productive capacities.

He appealed to kingmakers to be honest in choosing the rightful candidates to ascend to stools and skins to avoid the numerous chieftaincy disputes plaguing the nation.

The Deputy Minister said if kingmakers used material gains in the selection of chiefs, the future of the youth would be blighted. Togbega Gidi appealed to political leaders and supporters of political parties to ensure that the December 7 elections were conducted in peace, and the unity of the country was maintained. The Abutia Traditional Council presented awards to eight distinguished personalities of the area including Ms Elizabeth Ohene, a Minister of State, responsible for Tertiary Education.