He said the ban was necessary because radio anchors or moderators of phone-in programmes do not have the mechanism to prevent defamatory statements and comments that are likely to foment trouble from being aired.

Mr. Bimi explained that some of the careless utterances during such programmes could only bring about violence and breach the needed peace for the elections.

Mr. Bimi speaking to the state owned Daily Graphic said that the ban would not be contrary to the provisions of the 1992 constitution on free speech because the measure is needed to ensure peace.

"We must juxtapose the harmful effects of these phone-ins with the nation?s stability and democracy? he said.

He said such a ban should be carried out and enforced by the National Media Commission, the radio stations themselves and journalists.

Another concern of the NCCE is that there was no way of checking the identity of callers who may use names that are not theirs and ?before the line is cut the harm will already have been done'.

Mr. Bimi observed that elements of ethnicity were gradually seeping into political debates, especially in the media.

"Once ethnicity is introduced, it invokes passions so all parties to this year?s elections should do all they can to prevent this?.

Mr. Bimi said the NCCE had targeted the youth as a crucial partner for ensuring peace in the election.

In furtherance of this, the NCCE has held a number of workshops on peace and power in 45 districts in the country.

He said that if the NCCE is able to get the necessary funding, more workshops would be held in the other districts.