The Minister of Chieftaincy and Cultural Affairs, Mr. Alexander Asum- Ahensah has appealed to Ghanaians, particularly the youth to desist from acts that would mar the peace of the nation during and after Election 2012.

He said there is the need for Ghanaians to show to the world once again that democracy has always been part and parcel of our traditional political system and that we have deep understanding of its ramifications.

Mr. Asum-Ahensah was addressing a durbar of chiefs and people of Afigya-Kwabre to round-off their week-long “Efie ne Fie festival at Kodie on the theme: “Leadership and development redefined.”

It was marked with the honouring of some prominent people in the area, quiz and games competition, launch of Queen-mothers Association, indigenous food fair and advocacy sessions.

Mr. Asum-Ahensah said though Ghana has gone through peaceful and successful similar elections, events leading up to this year’s election do not speak well of the country.

He expressed the hope that the festival would be institutionalised so that it becomes not only a major force in the tourism calendar but also a monumental legacy for the people of the area.

Kaakyire Oppong-Kyekyeku, the District Chief Executive (DCE) said the festival which was first celebrated in 2010 upon his assumption as the DCE is built around networking, socio-cultural and economic development, mentoring and image branding of the district.

He appealed to the indigenes to come home and support the development of the area.

Mr. Albert Kan Dapaah, Member of Parliament for Sekyere West said he was happy to be part of the celebration and appealed to the chiefs to work hard and contribute meaningfully towards the December polls so that it ends successfully and violent-free.

Nana Adwoa Awindor, Enkosuohemaa of the area, appealed to parents to support the education of their children.

She also advised students, especially the girls to study hard to have their rightful place in the society.

Nana Owusu Peasah II, Chief of Adubinsokese called for unity of purpose and understanding among the people so that together they work to accelerate the development of the district.**