Accra, Jan. 26, GNA - Dr. Kwabena Adjei, National Chairman of the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) has expressed appreciation to all the stakeholders who managed the successful outcome of the party's eighth National Delegates' Congress held at Tamale, in the Northern Region recently.

Dr. Adjei who received over 95 per cent of votes cast to retain his position paid tribute to stalwarts like President John Evans Atta Mills, Vice President John Dramani Mahama and Founder, former President Jerry John Rawlings for the rich experience they extended before and during the congress.

"Their individual disposition might have reflected positively on the success of the outcome ", a statement issued from the Office of the NDC National Chairman said in Accra on Tuesday.

Dr. Adjei commended members of the party who contested various positions but were not elected and maintained that their composure and commitment towards the congress was a tacit demonstration of belief in participatory democracy as well as acceptance of the social democratic principles of the NDC.

"I appreciate their tolerance and understanding and hope to tap their resources in collaboration with the elected executives to enable us attain our Better Ghana Agenda and make the NDC the most coveted democratic institution in contemporary Ghanaian politics, "Dr. Adjei said. The NDC National Chairman in commending the newly elected executives, entreated them to live up to the new challenges they would face by working hard to help the party retain power in the 2012 elections.

Dr. Adjei thanked the top hierarchy of the party as well as the rank and file for their willingness to close ranks and handle differences in the long-term interest of the party.

"I also extend a big thumbs-up to the out-going National Executives for their support and the Northern Regional Executives of the party for hosting and overseeing the highly acclaimed peaceful congress". "My team is also grateful to the youth and women's wing of the party as well as the good people of Tamale for exhibiting a high sense of maturity before, during and after the congress, "he added. 26 Jan. 10