General News of Saturday, 27 August 2005

Source: GNA

Veep advises against inter-tribal & ethnic conflicts

Kumasi, Aug. 27, GNA- The Vice-President, Alhaji Aliu Mahama, on Saturday advised Ghanaians against inter-tribal and ethnic conflicts since such developments thwarted efforts aimed at enhancing national reconstruction.

He noted that the nation could achieve an accelerated socio-economic development only in an atmosphere of peace and harmony and, therefore, called on Ghanaians to be tolerant of each other's views and ethnic groupings.

Alhaji Mahama was speaking at a ceremony to commemorate the 100 years of the Wangara skin, organised by the Wangara community in Ashanti region, in Kumasi.

The ceremony which coincided with the 22nd anniversary celebration of Alhaji Ahmed Ibrahim as the Wangara chief in Ashanti, was under the theme, "Promoting Girl-Child Education".

The Vice-President called on the Muslims to live peacefully among themselves since Islam stood for absolute peace. Alhaji Aliu said: "You may have your differences but that does not give you the audacity to engage in violence and disrespect for other's views."

He challenged Muslims to exhibit a high sense of discipline and respect for the laws of the country in order to consolidate the peace that they were enjoying.

Concerning education, Alhaji Aliu said the government was committed to improving educational facilities to make them more accessible to all Ghanaians.

Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene, in a speech read on his behalf, commended the Wangara community for their peaceful co-existence with other ethnic groupings in the region and advised them to maintain the gesture.

Alhaji Ibrahim praised the council of elders of the Wangara community in Ashanti for supporting him since his enskinment.