Sunyani (B/A), July 16, GNA - Mr John Dramani Mahama, running mate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer Professor John Evans Atta Mills, on Wednesday said truth, accountability and transparency would be the hallmark of the NDC government in order to restore the confidence of the electorate in politicians. Mr Mahama said information gathered so far during his tour of some parts of Brong-Ahafo indicated that people had lost confidence in politicians and the NDC was determined to change the trend under the leadership of Prof. Atta Mills.

Mr Mahama was speaking during a courtesy call on Nana Bosoma Asor Nkrawiri II, Omanhene of Sunyani Traditional Area. He described Prof. Atta Mills as a man of integrity who had an untainted track record and had never indulged in any form of corruption all through his service to the nation in various capacities. Mr Mahama expressed optimism that these sterling qualities would be reflected when he took over power.

Nana Bosoma urged the Electoral Commission not to indulge in acts that would undermine the credibility of the voter's register as that could be a recipe for chaos and confusion. He urged politicians to be civil in their language during campaigning to avoid creating unnecessary tension before, during and after the elections.

Mr Mahama and his entourage also interacted with members of the Local Council of Churches in Sunyani and stressed that it was important to concentrate on the spiritual life of the people. He said religious bodies also had a role to play in sensitizing and shaping the minds of the people towards the crucial choice of a President for the nation.

Mr Mahama said since NDC stood for "peace and unity", a government under Prof. Mills would strive to integrate the people and create opportunities for all, irrespective of political and ethnic inclination.

"This is why we try to put the Electoral Commission on its toes, not that we don't trust them. This is to safeguard peace", he added. Mr Samuel K. Teye, Vice-chairman of the Local Council of Churches, said the council had begun a programme to invite all political parties to educate them on the need to avoid cheating during elections. He asked them to guard against negative utterances and remain objective to create a healthy environment for the building of a strong and dynamic society.

Members of the council later offered prayers for a peaceful tour and for peace before, during and after the elections.