Accra, Feb. 26, GNA - The family of the late Edward K. Salia, Member of Parliament for Jirapa on Thursday called on the leadership of Parliament to formally inform the House of his death. The late Salia, who was a former Minister of Roads and Transport as well as Communications, died on February 16, 2009 in Accra. The delegation was led by Ganaa Anssoleh II, Paramount Chief of Jirapa in the Upper West Region. Ganaa Anssoleh was known in private life as Mr Peter Nanfuri, former Inspector General of Police (IGP). The delegation also included traditional rulers from Jirapa, the children and widow of the late Salia, Mrs Mary Asunta Salia; Mr Mahmud Khalid, Upper West Regional Minister and the MP for Nadowli East, Mr Mathias Asoma Puozaa. The spokesman for the family, Professor Banoe Yakubo said they were in Parliament to officially inform the House of the death their beloved and illustrious son, who passed away about two weeks ago as well as the funeral arrangements. He said the family has decided that the burial and funeral would take place in Jirapa on March 20 and 21.

Prof. Banoe Yakubo described the late Salia as a man of strength and character who continued working even though he was not well. "Despite all the odds he was able to win the Jirapa seat in the last elections due to his extreme sense of duty." The Second Deputy Speaker, Professor Mike Oquaye who received the delegation on behalf of the leadership described the late Salia as a devout Christian who distinguished himself as an MP and a Minister. "He was humble, selfless and respectable person and died in action serving his people."

Prof Oquaye assured the family of Parliament's support and that a committee has been set up by Parliament to liaise with the family to give the late Salia a befitting burial. The Majority Leader, Mr Alban Bagbin said the late Salia was an experienced MP and that it was unfortunate his death would deprive new Members of Parliament of his knowledge of the work of the House. He described the late MP as "a calm person who served the nation with distinction."

The Minority Leader, Mr Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu said the late Salia "was a friend, a partner and a perfect gentleman." He described the late MP, as a profound debater in Parliament and his death would create a vacuum in the House.