Accra, Dec.17, GNA- The United Kingdom (UK) and Ireland branch of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) on Friday congratulated President John Agyekum Kufuor for his second electoral victory in the December 7, Presidential elections.

A statement issued and signed by Mr Kwaku Ampratwum-Sarpong, Chairman of the branch and copied to the media said: " Indeed the election of President Kufuor for a second four-year term demonstrates the trust and confidence Ghanaians have in him and the NPP Government". "We are convinced that President Kufuor and the NPP emerged victorious as a result of our firm belief and commitment to liberal democratic principles of rule of law, press freedom, free market economy and the promotion of individual freedom", it added.

The branch called on Ghanaians to embrace wholeheartedly, Positive Change Chapter Two agenda, which was designed to build on the solid foundation laid over the past four years.

These include macro economic stability, press freedom, judicial independence, maintenance of law and order and sustainable development. It gave the assurance that the branch would continue to offer the needed support and assistance to make the "NPP the most attractive political party for Ghanaians both at home and abroad".

The statement said although the NPP won the general election, the results were not what was expected and therefore, suggested that prudent investigations should be conducted into the results based on the various branches and constituencies.

"We are encouraged by the position declared by Mr Dan Botwe, the General Secretary that preparation for election 2008 has begun", the statement added.