The Ashanti Regional Minister, John Alexander Ackon, has called for the church to lead the crusade against the spread of the HIV-AIDS infection, adding that, speed is of the essence.

He said it was important not only to help people to reject risky sexual behaviors but to avoid stigmatization of those living with the disease and support them to lead normal lives.

He was addressing the 19th annual Diocesan Synod of the Obuasi Methodist Church at New Edubiase in the Adansi South District.

Mr. Ackon said everything must be done to significantly bring down the prevalence rate of 2.8 percent in the region.

“The facts and figures continue to be alarming and the records indicate that there are new cases every day and these figures may not even be accurate because not all cases are reported.”

He said the trend could not continue and must change to give protection, particularly to the youth.

He also asked the church to use its enormous influence with the people to ensure that this year’s election was peaceful.

The Right Reverend Hayford Aduse-Poku, the Diocesan Bishop, reminded voters to critically examine the campaign promises of the political parties to make the right choices.

“It is important to assess the candidates, the political parties and their manifestoes before casting your vote for them.”

He stated that it would be irresponsible for anyone to take money, mobile phones and other inducements to vote for any candidate, he added.

The Rt. Rev. Aduse-Poku used the occasion to demand decisive action by the appropriate state institutions to stop the growing destruction of the forest, farmlands, farms and water bodies through illegal gold m