Mr Samson Kwaku Boafo, Ashanti Regional Minister-designate, on Wednesday, said if he had the opportunity he would abolish the pouring of libation at state functions.

He, however, stated that even though he is a devout Christian he would freely tolerate ceremonies of other religions and not because he is obliged by law to do so. Mr Boafo was the first in the queue of presidential nominees that were screened by the Parliamentary Appointment Committee in Accra. He said he would promote ethnic, religious and social harmony in the Ashanti Region to accelerate development when given the nod.

Mr Victor Gbeho, (Independent-Anlo) wanted to know how best he would de-emphasise the concentration of ethnic groups in certain suburbs of Kumasi so that they do not become easy targets for molestation. Mr. Boafo said such settlements of the city are heterogeneous and only bear the names of certain ethnic groups that founded them.

" I understand that it is not only the people from Anlo who live in Anloga and that citizens of Fanti form only a part of the population at Fanti Newtown. Anlo men love Ashanti women very much so don't worry." Mr Freddy Blay, Chairman of the committee, said the romantic co-operation should not be limited to the two ethnic groups.

On the development of the Kumasi Suame string of garages popularly called "Suame Magazine", Mr. Boafo said the NPP government has the solution to the problems there. " I think it is the duty of government to help the artisans. There are a lot of things and services government can offer to make the artisan more productive."

The Chairman did not allow the nominee to answer the question: "Will you be loyal to the Asantehene, your King or the President, Mr J.A.Kufuor?", posed by a member of thje committee.