Bolgatanga, Aug 7, GNA - Hundreds of residents of the Upper East Regional capital defied a heavy downpour on Monday afternoon to welcome the new Regional Minister, Mr. Alhassan Samari, who took over from Mr. Boniface Gambila as the region's political head.

A convoy comprising functionaries of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), heads of departments, security agencies and well-wishers met the incoming minister at Pwalugu and escorted him to Bolgatanga amidst tooting of car horns, sirens and chanting of slogans. On arrival at the Residency the ceremony was put on hold for close to one hour as a result of heavy rainfall that drove the crowd to verandas.

Mr. Samari emerged to address the people when the rain abated, accompanied by Mr. Gambila, Mr. Francis Afoko, Council of State Member, District Chief executives and Regional Executives of the NPP. Mr. Gambila said his successor had come to "continue with the good works of the NPP government" and urged people of the region to support Mr. Samari to enable him to discharge his duties effectively.

Mr. Samari acknowledged the role of his predecessor in the advancement of the goals of the party and in the implementation of government policies.

He called for unity and said it was essential for the development of the region.

"Our major concern now should be how we can win the race ahead and for us to emerge victorious we must maintain a united front and throw our support solidly behind the NPP," said the Regional Minister in reference to next year's polls.

He pledged to maintain constant touch and interact regularly with the people in the constituencies, villages and in their homes. 07 Aug 07