Accra, Dec. 26, GNA - The National Democratic Congress (NDC) on Sunday expressed the party's warmest felicitations and love to the people of Gha= na and beyond on the occasion when Christians worldwide are celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ. The party sees Christmas as an occasion for joy, building bridges for Peace, forgiveness, sharing, love and unity of mankind.

A Statement issued and signed in Accra by Mr Johnson Aseidu-Nketia, General Secretary of the Party, said 93We also share in the great expectations of all Ghanaians and our determination to better the lives of the citizenry through effective prosecution of the 93Better Ghana Agenda= "". It said as the world observed this momentous occasion, especially in Ghana, the NDC, urged all Ghanaians to preach love and unity to enable the nation to sustain the peace and tranquility currently prevailing in the country.

The party believed that the wishes and aspirations of any democratic society would be realized based on prevailing conducive socio-economic and political environment.

"It is for this reason that we extend appreciation to other politica= l parties for contributing their quota towards nation building. Their constructive criticisms had been helpful and we encourage more of such discourses in the coming year," it added.

The statement noted that as the country continued to receive international commendation, greater recognition and respect for upholding multi-party democracy in Africa, the NDC government expected that Ghanaians would use the festive season not only to preach the 91good news' of peac= e and love but do everything possible to hold up the banner of democracy. It also urged Ghanaians to be careful in their celebrations, saying modesty and good temperament was needed to avoid any nasty incidents during the festive season.

We wish all and sundry a joyous Merry Christmas celebration and a fulfilling New Year.