Regional News of Wednesday, 10 September 2008

Source: GNA

Political parties reminded of role in peace promotion

Nalerigu (N/R), Sept. 10, GNA - Mr Peter Wuni, the Mamprusi East District Chief Executive, has reminded political parties that they area obliged to help promote peace in the country. He asked leaders and supporters of political parties not to consider their opponents as enemies but to regard them as partners in development.

Mr Wuni was addressing a public forum, held at Nalerigu in the District, on the theme: "Sensitisation on the electoral process, effective participation and peaceful non-violent election". The Nation Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), organised the one-day forum for representatives of political parties, farmers' associations, security agencies and opinion leaders, assembly members and persons with disabilities, from the area. Mr wuni urged the participants to be patriotic, vigilant and help to ensure peace before, during and after the 2008 Election. He advised political parties, especially those that would be contesting the polls in December to tolerate the views of their political rivals and avoid insults in their campaigns. At Gambaga, Mr Salifu Fuseini, the District Director of the NCCE, said the international community has acknowledged the country's democratic system.

He said such an achievement should not be derailed by violence and expressed worry about the resent clash between the supporters of NDC and NPP at the Gushiegu. At Langbinsi, District Police Commander Jose Sanzo gave the assurance that the police would ensure security during the polls. He advised supporters of political parties not to destroy campaign posters and paraphernalia of their opponents since it was against the law. The District Police Commander asked political parties to give the police the five days mandated notice before organising political rallies, to enable security personnel make the necessary arrangements for such events.