Kpassa, (V/R) March 15, GNA - The Reverend Samuel Owiredu, the Kpassa District Pastor of the Apostolic Church of Ghana, has called for harmony between the government and the opposition for accelerated national development.

He gave the advice in a sermon at a non-denominational Church to climax the national week of fasting and prayers at Kpassa, on Sunday. Reverend Owiredu called for genuine criticism from both sides to serve as checks and balances of the Arms of Government and its businesses. "I am not by any imagination imputing political radicalism or sabotage for government's agenda, which could be exploited for political gains," he explained.

Rev. Owiredu asked for regular prayers for the country's leaders because "If leaders succeed, most of the people succeed." He called on the government to redouble efforts at stemming corruption, armed robbery, fraud, the lackadaisical attitude to work and other negative tendencies. Rev. Owiredu charged the youth to lead responsible lifestyles to reflect the image of God in them. Mr Paul Levin Gyato, Nkwanta North District Chief Executive, entreated Ghanaians to emulate the humility, modesty and honesty of President John Evans Atta Mills, saying these are the virtues of good leadership. He said the country would achieve a desired middle-income status only if the masses are united behind its leadership with the necessary support. 15 March 10