Garu (U/E), Oct. 17, GNA- The Upper East Regional Organiser of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Mr Mohammoud Mahama, has said that the party will retain power in the 2004 general election, no matter what its detractors will do.

"Anyone, within or outside NPP, who attempts to derail our course to victory, would be swept aside," he said.

Mr Mahama was addressing party executives and supporters held in honour of Mr Emmanuel Asigri, parliamentary aspirant for the Garu/Tempane constituency, at Garu near Bawku on Tuesday. He said the party has reached a stage where loyalty and dedication from members were needed to enable government to accomplish its developmental agenda.

On his part, the Regional Secretary of the party, Mr Godfred Koyiba, urged supporters to be focused on government's policies and to rally support for the NPP in next year's election.

Mr Koyiba called on supporters to register so that they can vote massively to retain party in power.

Mr Asigri urged the party supporters to be steadfast in their support for the NPP government.

He said the NPP would not impose anyone on the electorate, stressing that the party believes in democracy and would always abide by the constitution.

Mr Asigri pledged to improve the people's living conditions when elected into office, by placing priority on health and education to reduce migration of the youth from the area.