Atebubu (Brong Ahafo) 12 April '99

The Atebubu Youth Association has appealed to factions in the Atebubu chieftaincy dispute to give up their "hardline positions" and allow for a peaceful settlement. They noted with concern the "devastating effects" of the 10- year-old dispute on the unity and progress of the people in the area. Apart from the painful polarisation of the people, the dispute has stifled the communal and self-help spirit of the people, Mr Emmanuel Owusu Ansah, chairman of the association, said at a durbar held by the youth at Atebubu. The durbar was aimed at raising funds to support the rehabilitation of streets in the town. Mr Ansah was emphatic that the conflict was not in anybody's interest and said they were determined to promote peace, mutual understanding, trust and co-operation among the people. Mr Valentine Kuuizume, Co-ordinating Director of the Atebubu District Assembly, drew attention to the need to use dialogue to resolve all disagreements. An amount of one million cedis was raised at the function.