General News of Saturday, 24 April 2004

Source: GNA

Using lies to win votes is despicable- Bishop

Ejisu (Ash), April 24, GNA-The Right-Reverend Samuel Agyeman-Kwakye, Methodist Bishop of Effiduase, has told politicians to avoid the use of lies and deception in their campaign for votes during the December general polls.

"Deceiving and telling lies to people just to win their sympathy and support is as despicable as it is sinful", he said. The Right-Reverend Agyeman-Kwakye was addressing the seventh Synod of the Effiduase Diocese of the Methodist Church at the Ebenezer Methodist Church at Ejisu on Friday.

The four-day synod has the theme: "Together We Can". The Bishop said, "let us remember that it is only by being truthful in whatever we do that the peace, unity and harmony of our country could be sustained".

He noted that the church has a duty to work together with the state to promote peace, social justice and progress in the society. This, he said, should do by addressing itself and becoming more sensitive to the needs of the poor and the socially disadvantaged. "The Lord wants us to pull our resources in order to build a healthy society. There must therefore be the willingness to share our resources".

Bishop Agyeman-Kwakye announced that the church as part of its poverty reduction package, has disbursed 18.4 million cedis to 41 farmers at Jeduako to expand their farms. Besides, it has given out cattle and nanny goats to 52 young men in the community to start livestock farming. He said the assistance would be extended to other communities in the Diocese.

Mr Yaw Ahenkora-Afrifa, District Chief Executive for Ejisu-Juaben, called on the church to get actively involved in the fight against indiscipline in the country.

He said the waywardness of the youth as evident in their provocative way of dressing, disregard for law and order and insolent behaviour should engage its attention.

"As Christian parents, we want to see you bring your Christian principles to bear on these young ones so that they grow to become responsible adults". Nana Aboagye Agyei II, Omanhene of Ejisu, told the church to ensure that all of its properties were properly acquired and documented. 24 April 04